monument · Aquidauana, MS
Ponte Velha (Ponte Roldão Carlos de Oliveira)
Built between 1918 and 1921, it is 23 meters high and 63 meters long over the Aquidauana River. It links the city to Anastácio and is one of the region's historic landmarks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Ponte Velha (Ponte Roldão Carlos de Oliveira)
The Ponte Roldão Carlos de Oliveira, which everyone in Aquidauana calls the Ponte Velha (old bridge), crosses the Aquidauana River and links downtown to Anastácio, on the opposite bank. It is one of the postcard views of both cities and one of the region's historic landmarks.
Construction began in 1918, on stone pillars with an iron structure, and the bridge opened in 1921. The design was adapted from an English railroad bridge. It was the first link between the two banks that did not depend on boats and, for decades, the only crossing to Anastácio.
The bridge is 63 meters long and 23 meters high. Today cars, motorcycles, cyclists and pedestrians use it; trucks and buses do not. Walking across is the best way to see the iron trusses up close and look down at the river, with the riverside forest and the town of Anastácio on the other side.
The outing is short, flat and free, good for all ages. It is near Praça da Matriz and the Igreja Nossa Senhora Imaculada Conceição, so you can combine everything in a walk around the historic center.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes to walk across, look at the river and take photos.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the heat eases and the low light brings out the iron structure; in the high-water season the river is fuller and impressive.
How to get there
It is in downtown Aquidauana, near Praça da Matriz, and links the city to Anastácio over the Aquidauana River. You can walk there from anywhere downtown.
Tip
Walk across along the side, at a relaxed pace, and take the chance to visit the main church, just a few steps away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ponte Velha (Ponte Roldão Carlos de Oliveira)
What is the Ponte Velha in Aquidauana?
It is the metal-frame bridge over the Aquidauana River, built between 1918 and 1921, that links Aquidauana to Anastácio. It is also called Ponte da Amizade and Ponte Roldão Carlos de Oliveira.
Why is it called Ponte Roldão Carlos de Oliveira?
The name honors the mayor who started its construction, in 1918.
Can you walk across the Ponte Velha?
Yes. Pedestrians and cyclists cross the bridge, which also carries light vehicles.
Is there a fee to visit the Ponte Velha?
No. It is a public bridge, and crossing is free.
How long does it take to see the Ponte Velha?
Walking across takes a few minutes; allow about 30 minutes to cross at a relaxed pace, look at the river and take photos. You can combine it with the main church, a few blocks away.