Buzz
In the past, Hiền Lương Bridge stood as a historical witness, marking a crucial turning point for the nation. Today, adorned with a new appearance, this bridge captivates all who pass by, encouraging them to pause and preserve the magnificent moments on its path.
Hiền Lương Bridge - a must-visit check-in spot in Quang Tri.
Hiền Lương Bridge spans across National Highway 1A, crossing the Bến Hải River at kilometer 735 in Hiền Lương hamlet, Vĩnh Thành commune, Vĩnh Linh district, Quang Tri province.
The Bến Hải River originates from Động Chân Mountain in the Trường Sơn Range, flowing along the 17th parallel from west to east before pouring into the sea at Cửa Tùng Estuary. With a total length of nearly 100km, the widest point reaches about 200m, and the narrowest point measures 20-30m. It serves as the boundary between Vĩnh Linh and Gio Linh districts in Quang Tri province.
Under the 1954 Geneva Accords, Vietnam was temporarily divided into two regions, with the 17th parallel and the Bến Hải River serving as the demarcation line. From this point, Hiền Lương Bridge became a historical witness to the 20-year division of the nation.
The first Hiền Lương Bridge was constructed in 1928, with the feudal government of Vĩnh Linh district mobilizing the local populace to contribute their efforts. In 1952, the colonial French regime built the 198m-long Hiền Lương Bridge with 7 spans. Following the 1954 Geneva Accords, the bridge served as a temporary military demarcation line between the North and the South. During the Vietnam War, it endured fierce attacks, ultimately collapsing in 1967.
In 1974, the Ministry of Transport constructed a steel bridge downstream to facilitate traffic on National Highway 1A, connecting the North with Quảng Trị to transport goods, medicine, and military supplies for the Southern front and the historic Hồ Chí Minh Campaign.
In 1999, the reinforced concrete Hiền Lương Bridge was constructed to support the nation's construction and development efforts.
In December 1986, the Hiền Lương Twin Memorial Site was designated as a national relic. In 2014, the bridge was restored with green and gold paint, highlighting the value and significance of national unity and territorial integrity. It stands as a beacon for tourists, both domestic and international, to reflect on a time when the country was divided and to understand the strength of a nation deeply longing for peace and fervently striving for independence and freedom, to have a Vietnam as beautiful as it is today.
San San
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourOctober 31, 2016
