Water interpretation center: recovery and valorization of the railway bridge “El Manzano”

Abstract

El Manzano bridge is an old railway structure built between 1911 and 1914 as part of the Puente Alto - El Volcán railway line, located over the El Manzano stream in the homonymous locality of San José de Maipo. It played a vital role in local connectivity; however, in the 1980s, the relentless advance of technology rendered it obsolete, leading to its gradual deterioration and, ultimately, the dismantling of its components. Although this monument holds significant historical and heritage value, its current surroundings limit its appreciation in its entirety. The main observation point is on the road bridge that runs parallel to the railway bridge. From this perspective, both the contemplation of the bridge and the possibility of it being inhabited and fulfilling its essential function of being crossed are hindered, given its architectural nature.

The project titled "Water Interpretation Center: Recovery and Valorization of the Railway Bridge El Manzano" is proposed with the aim of restoring and enhancing the bridge along with its surroundings through three main strategies. Firstly, rehabilitating the infrastructure after detailed analysis to ensure appropriate interventions and prepare it for the interpretation center. Secondly, installing a walkway over the bridge to recover its original function while also serving as the venue for center programs. Finally, integrating the monument with the surroundings through landscaping interventions that offer various perspectives of the bridge and the stream, linking with the aquatic activity of the area.