Puente del Común, Stone bridge in Chía, Colombia

Puente del Común is a stone bridge that carries traffic across the Bogotá River and links two areas on opposite banks. Its solid construction reflects traditional building methods that have kept it standing through generations.

The bridge was built in colonial times as a key transportation link between settlements and demonstrates early engineering techniques used in the region. In 1975 it was officially designated as a national monument in recognition of its heritage value.

The bridge's name, Puente del Común, refers to the common land it served; its upkeep was funded for years by a toll paid by carriers bringing farm produce from northern towns and by travellers heading to Zipaquirá, Tunja, Vélez, Socorro, San Gil, Girón, Sogamoso and Los Llanos. The twelve pilasters along the parapets end in stone spheres.

The bridge lies about 30 km from Bogotá, on the road toward Chía, and can be reached by car or local bus from the town. The deck is narrow and carries traffic, so walkers should keep to the parapet side. The riverbanks below are uneven and can be muddy after rain; sturdy shoes help when approaching the arches.

The bridge's lateral walls carry twelve pilasters with pyramidal tops, finished with spherical ornaments and set at intervals along the parapets. The small square platforms at the ends are closed off by moulded columns ninety centimetres high, which support ornamental vases.