Mar31

“the belonging you seek is not behind you. it is ahead.” ― Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Posted on by
Standard

00140e03dea47e80edc6fc007fa4de6d553e0014.jpg.CROP.article920-large

the only remaining incan rope bridge

the Q’eswachaka rope bridge, suspended over the apurímac river in peru, is a piece of living history. it is the last of the rope bridges that once connected the incan road system, and dates back about five centuries. rebuilt from twisted cords of grass by residents each year, it is a piece of history that is not only still in use, but regularly renewed.

the bridge—spanning 118 feet and composed of local grasses—is remarkably sturdy: it can hold thousands of pounds of tension. but perhaps the most remarkable thing about the Q’eswachaka is the local community’s ongoing dedication to keeping it in working order.

 the bridge, though strong, only has a lifespan of one to two years before it begins to weaken. since the structure was first built nearly half a millennium ago, residents of nearby towns have fastidiously rebuilt it hundreds of times. they continue to rebuild it to this day, with each family contributing some 90 feet of rope.

—

“true belonging is born of relationships not only to one another

but to a place of shared responsibilities and benefits.

we love not so much what we have acquired

as what we have made and whom we have made it with.”

—robert finch

—

credits: atlas obscura, anna green, mental floss

 

 

50 responses »

  18. Reblogged this on talktodiana and commented:
    Beth over at, I didn’t have my glasses on, shares this incredible story about a very old bridge.

    Even more amazing, to me, is the fact that generations of families and neighbours have maintained that bridge for 500 years.

    At a time where people struggle to maintain personal relationships and community ties, this bridge is evidence that long-term partnerships are not only possible, but can last a half millennia!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply ↓

Leave a reply to Paul Cancel reply