Puente Malleco: A Chilean Engineering Marvel

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Discover Puente Malleco: A historic Chilean railway bridge offering stunning views and a glimpse into 19th-century engineering in Araucanía.

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Puente Malleco

Puente Malleco, a railway bridge near Collipulli, Araucanía, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering. Designed by Victorino Aurelio Lastarria and built by Schneider et Cie. O Le Creusot, this iconic structure offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Chile's industrial past.

A brief summary to Puente Malleco

Collipulli, Araucania, CL

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area around the bridge, as there are walking paths and viewpoints to discover.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the Malleco River valley and the surrounding landscape.
Consider visiting during the spring or autumn for pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.

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Getting There

Car

If traveling by car from Temuco, head north on Route 5 (Carretera Panamericana) for approximately 45 kilometers until the junction with Route 182. Take Route 182 towards Collipulli and continue for about 20 kilometers. Follow the signs for Puente Malleco, located a few kilometers west of Collipulli's center. Ample parking is available near the bridge.
Bus

Take a bus from Temuco to Collipulli, with several companies operating this route. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival in Collipulli, you can walk to Puente Malleco (around 5 kilometers), heading west on Calle O'Higgins and following the signs. Alternatively, a local taxi to the bridge should cost around 4,000 CLP.

Discover more about Puente Malleco

Puente Malleco, or Malleco Viaduct, is a railway bridge soaring over the Malleco River valley in the Araucanía Region of Chile. Located south of Collipulli, this bridge is not only a vital transportation link but also a symbol of progress and engineering ingenuity. Completed in 1890, the bridge was commissioned by President José Manuel Balmaceda as part of a national program to expand the railway system. The goal was to connect the northern and southern regions of Chile, fostering economic development and trade. Designed by Chilean engineer Victorino Aurelio Lastarria, the construction was awarded to French company Schneider et Cie. O Le Creusot, despite a proposal from Gustave Eiffel. The iron framework was manufactured in France, shipped to Talcahuano, Chile, and then transported by rail to the construction site.The Malleco Viaduct stretches 347 meters in length and soars 102 meters above the riverbed, making it one of the highest bridges in the world at the time of its construction. The bridge initially had four pillars, but two more were added later to support heavier trains. In 1990, it was declared a National Monument, recognizing its architectural significance and contribution to Chile's heritage. Today, visitors can admire the bridge's striking design and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.