The La Quemada Bridge is located on the grounds of the former Hacienda San José de la Quemada, in the municipality of San Felipe, Guanajuato, on the way to Dolores Hidalgo. Both the origins of the hacienda and the bridge date back to the second half of the 16th century.
Given its construction characteristics, reinforcement, and width, it is likely that ox-drawn carts, mules, and horses used to travel across it. This roadway structure connected the former Hacienda La Quemada with the road leading to San Felipe Torres Mochas, a neighboring city to San Miguel el Grande. The bridge crosses the river La Laja, which could have supplied the hacienda for a long period. The bridge is built of stone, with an earthen road. It is supported by five large stone arches, which have triangular bases extending from their foundation to the parapet.
Hacienda La Quemada originated in the mid-16th century. During the second half of the 19th century, it experienced its peak of prosperity and was considered one of the richest estates in the Bajío region. Initially famous for its cattle farming during the colonial period, it gained greater significance due to agriculture. It cultivated chili, beans, wheat, and corn, which were shipped via railroad to cities such as Mexico City, San Luis Potosí, and Guanajuato. Throughout the 20th century, Hacienda La Quemada gained significant importance as it became a central point for various forms of communication, including the Royal Inland Road for wagon travelers during the colonial era and the railways starting in the 19th century.
The La Quemada Bridge is currently infrequently used, as there are alternate routes available to reach the former Hacienda La Quemada and the town of the same name.
