Cầu Ông Thìn, Steel bridge in Thanh Hoa, Vietnam
Cầu Ông Thìn is a steel bridge crossing the Song Ma River near Thanh Hoa, linking regional transportation networks. The primary steel structure provides passage for vehicles and pedestrians traveling between areas on either side of the river.
The bridge was built during French colonial times, making it part of the colonial infrastructure development. During the Vietnam War, it faced repeated bombing attacks that tested its structural resilience over several years.
Local residents call this crossing the Dragon's Jaw, reflecting a Vietnamese tradition of linking powerful structures to dragon symbolism. This naming choice shows how people weave their cultural beliefs into everyday language about the places they use.
The crossing is located a short distance northeast of Thanh Hoa city and is accessible by road from the urban center. Walking or driving across offers views of the river, with clearer visibility and easier access during daylight hours.
The structure resisted repeated attacks using advanced weapons over several years, demonstrating exceptional engineering durability. Its ability to endure such stress before eventual destruction makes it a remarkable example of how infrastructure performed under extreme conditions.
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