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Bridge · Popayán, Cauca
Humilladero Bridge
Brick bridge 240 meters long, with a series of arches over the Molino River, inaugurated in 1873. It connected the center to the northern neighborhoods and is one of Popayán’s symbols.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Humilladero Bridge
The Puente del Humilladero is one of Popayán’s best-known images. The brick-and-mortar bridge is 240 meters long with a run of semicircular arches over the Molino River valley. The foundation stone was laid in 1868, and the bridge was inaugurated on July 31, 1873. The design is attributed to the Italian Franciscan friar Serafín Barbetti.
Before the bridge, arrivals from the north had to climb a steep slope to reach the center, walking bent over. That effort gave rise to the name “humilladero,” linked to the idea of bowing. For a long time the bridge was the main entrance to the city for those coming from the north.
Today it serves as a pedestrian link between the center and the northern neighborhoods. From the top you can see the river, the rooftops and the white towers of the historic center.
Near the bridge there are museums housed in large colonial houses, and from the balcony of some of them you can look down on the Humilladero.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 minutes to cross it and look at the bridge from below and above.
Best time
At late afternoon, when the light hits the brick arches. In the morning there is usually less activity.
How to get there
It is at the northern edge of the historic center, at calle 2 with carrera 6, about a five-minute walk from Parque Caldas.
Tip
Descend to river level to see the full arches and then cross over it. You can continue on foot to Morro de Tulcán.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Humilladero Bridge
Why is the bridge called Humilladero?
Before it existed, those arriving from the north climbed a steep slope up to the center, walking bent over. The name comes from that effort of bowing/stooping.
When was the Puente del Humilladero built?
Work began in 1868 and finished in 1873, the year of its inauguration.
Can you cross the Puente del Humilladero on foot?
Yes, it is a pedestrian passage between the historic center and the northern neighborhoods.