Most bridges today are made with materials such as steel, concrete, fiber composites or bricks. One material that's not used in new construction is rope. However, one of the oldest bridges in the world is a rope bridge. Since we enjoy highlighting the wide world of pedestrian bridges, we will count a rope bridge as fiber reinforced.
Considered one of the last remnants of the Incan Empire and hidden in Huinchiri, Peru, the Q’iswa Chaka (Quechua for “rope bridge”) still serves the locals as a walkway over the Apurimac River. It's recently gained more attention.
Built by the Incans in the 1500s, this bridge is rebuilt every year in June by a couple of local families. The process to create new rope is long and strenuous, using local vegetation to weave support cables strong enough to support 4,000 lb. In recent years, the Peruvian Government acknowledged that maintaining the Q’iswa Chaka is important for cultural preservation. Furthermore, outside sponsorships have provided monetary support for the project.
The bridge is a part of the series of bridges that connect trails to Machu Picchu. However the Q’iswa Chaka is one of two (the other being the Inca Bridge) that's still in use today. With the new attention brought upon the bridge, the Q’iswa Chaka should be hanging around for a lot longer.
