The world's oldest and longest teakwood bridge is rotting away

The U Bein bridge in Myanmar is the longest and oldest teakwood bridge in the world.

The 3,967 foot bridge was built in 1851 after the capital moved to Amarapura. It spans across the Taungthaman Lake and is an important crossway for many locals.

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Some historians believe the architects designed the bridge by counting their footsteps.

The bridge is largely intact from when it was built with the wood of the former royal palace. Yet, fears of the wood rotting have caused some of the 1,086 pillars supporting the bridge to be replaced with concrete.

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In some places, the pillars have become completely detached. Many locals are worried about how much longer the bridge will be standing.

The Ministry of Culture currently operates the bridges repairs, but it might not be enough.

Despite these fears, you can still visit the lake and walk along the bridge. May tourist sites recommend visiting the bridge in the late afternoon -- that way you get an unobstructed view of the sun setting over the serene lake.

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