Puente de Piedra, Stone bridge in Lima District, Peru.
Puente de Piedra is a stone bridge crossing the Rimac River and linking Lima's historic center with its northern districts. The structure features six solid stone arches and functions as a key route for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Architect Juan del Corral completed this structure in 1608, and it served as Lima's sole crossing point between districts for over two centuries. The completion of a second bridge in 1861 marked the end of its monopoly on river transport.
This bridge holds official recognition as a cultural heritage site and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1988. For locals, it represents a living connection to Lima's past and serves as a symbol of the city's identity across generations.
Walking across is straightforward and the bridge is accessible during daylight hours, though parking nearby is limited. Early morning or late afternoon offers a quieter experience if you prefer fewer crowds.
Egg whites were mixed into the mortar during construction, earning it the nickname Egg Bridge among locals. This unusual ingredient helped create a mortar that has kept the structure standing for centuries.
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