Puente Huérfanos, Pedestrian bridge in Santiago, Chile
Puente Huérfanos is a pedestrian bridge spanning across the Autopista Central and Metro Line 2 in Santiago. It connects the historic center with the Brasil district, allowing foot traffic to cross between Calle Tucapel Jiménez and Manuel Rodríguez poniente.
The bridge opened in 1997 as part of Santiago's efforts to improve pedestrian connections across major urban barriers. Its construction reflected the city's need to link the historic center with growing neighborhoods on the other side of the highway.
The street name Huérfanos comes from a former orphanage that cared for vulnerable children during a cholera outbreak in the area. This origin still shapes how locals understand the neighborhood's identity.
The walkway is roughly four meters wide and rises about 30 meters above ground, giving foot traffic a clear view while crossing. Elevators at both ends provide an easier way to reach the bridge if you prefer not to use the stairs.
The bridge uses a cable-stayed design, which gives it a distinctive visual structure that stands out in the urban landscape. This engineering approach allows it to span the wide gap below while remaining visible from different parts of the city.
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