Puente de Occidente
A suspension bridge over the Cauca River built in the late 19th century; once one of South America's longest suspension bridges, it is now a national heritage site.
The Puente de Occidente spans the Cauca River. Designed by Colombian engineer José María Villa, it was built between 1887 and 1895. At about 291 meters long, it was among the longest suspension bridges in South America at the time, and it is listed as a national historic heritage site. Stone archways stand at each end of the wooden deck, and the surrounding canyon is dry and hot. Motor vehicles are now banned: only pedestrians and mototaxis may cross, so you can stroll and take photos at a leisurely pace. Entry is free. It is about 5 km from the old town of Santa Fe de Antioquia. Mototaxis in town make the round trip in about 20 minutes, and the bridge is usually visited on the same day as the town.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Santa Fe de Antioquia
- Comuna 13
- Cerro El Volador
- Estadio Atanasio Girardot
- Parque Explora
- Medellín Botanical Garden
- Laureles & La Setenta
- Plaza Minorista José María Villa