Ponte 6 de Março, bridge in Recife, Pernambuco. Brazil
Ponte 6 de Março is a steel and concrete bridge in Recife that spans the river and connects different neighborhoods. It has a simple, sturdy design with a flat walking surface, serving as a reliable passage for residents and visitors.
The original bridge at this site was built in 1643 as the Boa Vista Bridge during the rule of Maurice of Nassau. The current bridge opened in 1921 and was named after the Pernambuco Revolution of March 6, 1817, a turning point in local history.
Locals call this bridge "Ponte Velha," meaning Old Bridge, reflecting how deeply it is woven into the city's identity. The name references a pivotal moment that residents still regard with pride today.
The bridge is accessible daily for walking or cycling, offering views of the river and surroundings. It connects different neighborhoods and is easily reached from nearby streets and markets.
An interesting detail is the mismatch between the popular name "Ponte Velha" and the sign at its east end calling it "Ponte Nova," reflecting the complex history of this location. This naming confusion reveals how places shift their identity while keeping their connection to the past.
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