What were the suspension bridges built by the Inca primarily made of?

The suspension bridges built by the Inca were primarily made of rope, showcasing their advanced engineering skills and resourcefulness. These bridges typically used a technique that involved braided grass or other plant fibers, which were strong and flexible, allowing them to span vast gorges and mountainous areas effectively. The Inca utilized the abundant natural resources available to them, which included local plants that could be woven into durable cords.

These rope bridges not only facilitated movement across difficult terrains but also played a crucial role in the Inca road system, connecting various parts of the vast empire. The use of rope allowed the bridges to be more easily repaired or replaced compared to stone or metal constructions, which were more permanent and less flexible.

In contrast, stone would not have been practical for such designs due to its rigidity and weight. Although some bridges in other cultures were made of wood or metal, these materials were less commonly associated with the Inca's specific construction techniques and environmental adaptations. Therefore, the choice of rope highlights the Inca's ingenuity and adaptability to their surroundings in Mesoamerica.