U Bein Bridge is a long teakwood bridge over Taungthaman Lake near Amarapura in Myanmar, begun in 1849 and completed in 1851 as the Ava Kingdom’s capital shifted to Amarapura. Named for Maung Bein, who had it built, it was made in part from timber reclaimed from the former royal palace in Inwa, linking it to the region’s royal past. Its slightly curved design, deeply driven posts, and liftable sections reflect practical engineering for the lake environment. Widely regarded as the world’s oldest and longest teak bridge, it remains a vital local route, a major attraction, and an important site facing preservation challenges from decay, flooding, and altered water conditions.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia

Photo: Wikipedia