Lapa Arch Bridge

Lapa Arch Bridge

Introduction

This 18th-century aqueduct arch bridge was once a symbol of Rio de Janeiro’s nightlife. Inspired by Lisbon’s Águas Livres Aqueduct, the Lapa Arch Bridge was built between 1719 and 1725 by Black slaves and indigenous people. Standing 64 meters high and stretching 270 meters long, it was constructed from Brazilian granite, lime, sand, and fish oil. Its purpose was to transport water from the Carioca River on Santa Teresa Hill to a fountain in Carioca Square in the Santa Teresa district.

However, since 1896, a tram line has been laid on top of the arch bridge, turning it into a bridge connecting two districts. In 1995, both the Lapa Arch Bridge and the tram line were renovated, and to this day, the tram remains a primary mode of transportation for residents in the Santa Teresa district.

Brasília, Brazil