The Impressive Q´eswachaka Bridge

The Impressive Q´eswachaka Bridge

jun/29/2020
A little known but very impressive destination is the Q´eswachaka bridge or better known as the Hanging Bridge of Cusco.
The Q´eswachaka bridge, which means in quechua “Q´eswa” = braid and “Chaka” = bridge, is located over the Apurimac river, in the Quehue district of Cusco.
It is a suspension bridge whose origin dates back to the time of the Incas, it is 28 meters long and 1.20 meters wide and was part of the Qhapac Ñan system.
This wonderful bridge is made of ichu, a vegetable fiber that abounds in the Andean highlands.
 
Its maintenance is carried out through a rite every year in June, with raw materials and traditional techniques, carried out jointly by the communities of Huinchiri, Chaupibanda,  Ccollana, Quehue y  Choccayhua.
This ritual lasts 4 days:
On the first day the ropes are braided to assemble the Qheswasqa (larger braid).
On the second day, the old ropes that hold the bridge are disassembled, then the new braids are tied and thrown from one side to the other so that the bridge is armed.
4 thick ropes are braided which serve as the base for the bridge.
On the third day they continue with the assembly of the railings and base of the bridge.
On the fourth and last day, they finish the bridge fabric, ensuring the last fibers.
The inauguration is held with a festival of dances, music and sales of typical food from the region.
 
With the renovation of the bridge, we revalue our Inca traditions and culture, which continues in force over the years.
Our beautiful Q´eswachaka Bridge or Suspension Bridge has been considered as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO since 2013.
On August 5, 2009, the National Institute of Culture declared the ritual of renovation of the Q´eswachaka bridge as Cultural Heritage of the Nation.
 
This beautiful destination full of history has to be on the list for your next trip!!!

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