San Antonio Bridge: A Testament to Guam's Enduring History

The San Antonio Bridge, also known as Tollai Acho (stone bridge) in Chamorro, is a tangible link to Guam's Spanish colonial era. Constructed around 1800 under the administration of Governor Manuel Muro, the bridge was dedicated to San Antonio de Padua, whose image was carved into a keystone. This single-arch stone bridge connected the pre-war barrios of San Ignacio and Bilibik, facilitating travel along the road that linked Humåtak (a key port for galleons) with Hagåtña, the capital. Originally, the bridge spanned the Hagåtña River. However, the river's course was altered during the post-World War II reconstruction of Hagåtña. Today, the bridge is the centerpiece of Sirena Park, named after a Chamorro legend about a girl transformed into a mermaid for disobeying her mother. Visitors can see a statue of Sirena near the bridge, as well as a statue honoring Don Pedro Pengelinan Martinez, a prominent Guam businessman. While small, the San Antonio Bridge offers a glimpse into Guam's layered past, representing Spanish engineering, Chamorro legends, and the impact of WWII. It's a serene spot for reflection and a connection to the island's cultural heritage.