Table of Content
Arequipa, known as the White City, stands out not only for its colonial mansions and sillar temples but also for its impressive historic bridges, which connect districts and generations. Each has a unique story and represents an important stage in the urban and cultural development of the city.
Below, discover the four most important bridges in Arequipa, their origin, architecture, and curious facts that make them true icons of southern Peru.
1. Bolognesi Bridge: Witness to Centuries over the Chili River
Formerly called Puente Real or Puente Viejo (Royal Bridge or Old Bridge), it is one of the oldest bridges in the city. Its construction began in 1577 and was led by architect Juan de Aldana, finishing in the early 17th century.
- Built entirely of sillar stone, it features semi-circular arches that make it a masterpiece of colonial engineering.
- It serves as a crossing over the Chili River, a fundamental river in Arequipa’s geography.
- It is part of the Historic Center and offers impressive views of the Misti volcano.
Location: Just a few steps from Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas (Main Square).
Best time to visit: In the mornings to photograph the Misti in the background.
Curious fact: There is a local legend about a mermaid who appeared to men who crossed the bridge alone at night.
2. Iron Bridge (Puente de Fierro): 19th Century Wrought Iron Heritage
Also called Puente Bolívar, this bridge was inaugurated in 1870 to serve as a railway crossing. Its metal structure was inspired by the style of the Eiffel Tower, although Gustave Eiffel’s direct participation has not been confirmed.
- Originally served for the train route between Arequipa and Puno.
- Since 1920, it became a pedestrian bridge and is currently also used by cyclists.
- It has a length of 484 meters and a height of 37 meters above the river.
Location: Near the Santa María Catholic University and the Mario Vargas Llosa Museum.
Free access all day. Currently, vehicular traffic is not permitted.
Recognition: Since 2003, it has been declared a Monumental Urban Environment for its historical value.
3. Grau Bridge: Stone Engineering with Republican Elegance
Built between 1884 and 1888, this bridge was a complex work that stands out for its design of sillar-carved arches and stone balconies. It is considered the third oldest bridge in Arequipa.
It was officially inaugurated on December 15, 1888.
It is part of the vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the city center.
From its balconies, you can see the Chili River and the Arequipa countryside.
Location: Connects Grau street with the Grau Oval, near Av. Ejército.
Recommendation: Visit during the day to admire its architecture, or at night to see the city illuminated.
Curious fact: Legend says the first being to cross the bridge was a donkey, according to the writings of chronicler Juan Guillermo Carpio.
4. Chilina Bridge: Modern Engineering with Panoramic View
The most modern of the four, the Chilina Bridge – officially named Puente Mariano Melgar Valdivieso – was inaugurated in 2014 and represents Arequipa’s architectural advancement in the 21st century.
- It measures 562 meters long and connects the districts of Cayma and Selva Alegre.
- It has four high-strength pillars and can withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 9.
- Its architecture was designed not to alter the landscape or the visual cultural heritage.
Location: Connects the Cusco Oval with the Rocoto Oval, crossing the Chili River.
Important: Currently, free pedestrian access is not permitted for safety reasons, and there is continuous surveillance.
Current situation: In recent years, numerous cases of attempted suicides have been reported, leading to proposals for campaigns for its protection and preventive netting.
