Visiting Arcos da Lapa
The Arcos da Lapa, or Carioca Aqueduct, is a historic aqueduct built by Portuguese colonists in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was originally designed to transport water from the Carioca River to the city center to supply the residents of Rio. While the concept surfaced in the 17th century, construction on the aqueduct did not actually begin until 1723.
An iconic colonial structure in Rio de Janeiro
The Carioca Aqueduct was built between 1723 and 1744 in the historic center of Rio, within the Lapa neighborhood, one of the oldest in the city. Initially, the Portuguese colonists attempted to build the structure using iron, but the local climate and infrastructure proved incompatible, as corrosion quickly compromised the bridge. It was eventually demolished and rebuilt using a more durable traditional blend of stone and lime.
The aqueduct stands on 42 arches and reaches nearly 18 meters in height. Its 270 meters of length are frequently occupied by pop-up musical performances, alternative acts, and street shows. At night, the structure is illuminated, serving as a backdrop for revelers moving between local bars.
A transit link between the city center and Santa Teresa hill
Today, the aqueduct no longer carries water, but it continues to serve as a passage between the city center and the Santa Teresa neighborhood. For nearly a century, from 1875 to 2011, it supported the iconic Carioca Bondinho tramway. Following a fatal accident in 2011, tram service was suspended for 8 years. The line finally reopened in 2019 after years of renovation work and the introduction of new trams. It is worth riding to see Rio from a different perspective.
Arcos da Lapa is like a modern aqueduct right in the heart of the popular Lapa neighborhood. I suggest waiting a few minutes to take a picture of the tram passing over it or, even better, taking the tram across it yourself.
You are just a short distance from the Selaron Steps, a must-see in the area. You should also know that every Friday, a typical Brazilian street party happens in this neighborhood under the arches. And it is seriously crazy!