Overview:

was built by a woman named Tran Thi Dao in 1776, the bridge is an arched bridge made of bricks, one of the oldest bridges in the country. It is located at Thanh Toan village, about 8 kilometers southeast of Hue city. The bridge features an archway of seven spans, each over 20 meters in length. It is decorated with intricate carvings depicting lotus plants, figures and ancient scripts. The bridge stands as a symbol of the ingenuity and resilience of its creator. According to legend, Tran Thi Dao and her husband were ordered to build a bridge for their village. Instead of money, the couple requested materials such as bricks, wood, and stone. The couple built a bridge that has stood for over 300 years. Today, the bridge is a popular tourist attraction and is used as a place for locals to gather and enjoy the scenery. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs, traditional foods, and handicrafts from vendors around the area. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Vietnam
Prominent Features:

1. Ancient Architecture: The 10-meter-long bridge, consisting of 13 arches, is built in traditional Vietnamese style, making it an attractive sight and popular tourist attraction. 2. Ancient State: The Thanh Toan Bridge provides visitors the opportunity to take a step back in time. Built over 200 years ago, this traditional bridge still stands strong. 3. Unique Features: Lined on both sides by bougainvillea flowers and lush green foliage, the bridge stands out for its uniqueness among other tourist attractions. 4. Cultural Significance: This significant bridge reflects the cultural ties between Vietnam and China, as it was modeled after Chinese bridges. 5. Elaborate Roofs: Small and intricate hexagonal roof tiles decorate the delicate roof structures atop the bridge, creating an artistic sight. 6. Historical Value: Important events throughout Vietnamese history have taken place here, including its role in the Vietnam War. 7. Religious Significance: The bridge is home to the Thanh Toan Temple, a Taoist shrine, and other religious statues. 8. Remarkable View: From its vantage point, visitors can see the peaceful countryside of Thua Thien-Hue Province. This national monument of Vietnam portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Thanh Toan Bridge is an 18th-century covered bridge located in Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam. The bridge was built in 1776 by a local woman named Hoang Thi Kieu, to provide access across a canal connecting two villages in the area. The bridge is a unique example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and engineering, and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Hue. The bridge consists of seven spans, supported by 17 wooden columns, making it one of Vietnam’s most recognizable bridges. It measures 85 meters from end to end and stands 7 meters above the water. The sides of the bridge are thatched, giving it a unique rustic appearance. At the entry stretches an impressive arched gate with intricately carved detailed which features images of clouds, dragons and other mythical creatures. The Thanh Toan Bridge is known for its unique features such as its arched gate and designed to span the widest imaginable canal. It was also built to withstand heavy rainfall and floods, further demonstrating the sophisticated engineering skills of the Vietnamese. It is the only traditional bridge still standing in Central Vietnam. Today, the Thanh Toan Bridge serves as an important tourist attraction and an important reminder of traditional Vietnamese culture and architecture. It is also a key component of the historic Thanh Toan area which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. The bridge's importance has been acknowledged by many prestigious international awards, including the UNESCO International Award of Excellence for its conservation and restoration and the Award of Excellence from the International Council on Monuments and Sites. Despite its impressive history, the Thanh Toan Bridge still faces certain threats, most notably from urbanisation and infrastructural development, which put its future in doubt. The bridge is in dire need of restoration and protection if it is to be preserved for future generations and remain a living reminder of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. You must visit one of these historical places in Vietnam on your Vietnam tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Thanh Toan Bridge, also known as the “One Pillar Bridge” or “Kiem Xa Bridge”, is located just outside of Hue, the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam. 2. The bridge was constructed in the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty rule of Vietnam. The original bridge, built as a single stone arch, collapsed in 1904 and was rebuilt two years later in 1906. 3. The name “One Pillar Bridge“ comes from the bridge’s single pillar made out of a massive piece of stone. 4. The bridge is a symbol of Thanh Toan village and is considered an architectural masterpiece. It is also an important feature in the popular local folk song, “Thanh Toan Bridge“. 5. A communal house, dating back to the 19th century, sits in the middle of the bridge. The house contains several antique artifacts, including a large bell and ancient ceramics. 6. In 1984, Thanh Toan Bridge was recognized as a national heritage site. In 2004, the bridge received an award from the Vietnamese government for its unique architecture and historical significance. 7. The bridge is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can purchase handmade goods from the local villagers and take boat excursions on the nearby river. Visit one of the famous monuments of Vietnam with your friends and family.