Puente de Occidente (Bridge of the West)

The basics

The bridge was designed by José María Villa, who studied in the US and was involved in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. The construction of the Bridge of the West is considered to be one of the key turning points in Colombia’s industrialization, and the Colombian government deemed it a National Site of Cultural Interest in 1978. In 2012, Colombia submitted the bridge to UNESCO for consideration for the World Heritage Site list.

Things to know before you go

• The bridge is pedestrian-friendly, but people who use wheelchairs might find the pedestrian section too narrow for comfort.

• The bridge is only wide enough to accommodate one car at a time, so be prepared for waits if you plan to drive across.

• Puente de Occidente is a must-see for travelers interested in engineering history.

How to get there

The Puente de Occidente is about an 80-minute drive from the heart of Medellín, and the best way to get there is by car or by hiring a private taxi. Day tours to Santa Fe de Antioquia often include a visit to a bridge, about a 15-minute drive from the town center. There is a parking lot.

When to get there

Santa Fe de Antioquia, where the Puente de Occidente is located, enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year, so weather isn’t likely to be much of a concern. However, the town (and the bridge) can get busy on weekends, so opt for a weekday visit to avoid the masses.

Santa Fe de Antioquia

If you’re visiting the bridge, you’ll likely also be spending some time in Santa Fe de Antioquia, a beautifully preserved town known not only for the bridge, but also for its Spanish colonial architecture. It’s a great place to stroll around and check out the architecture, and it’s worth stopping by the Juan del Corral Museum to deepen your knowledge of the region’s history.