Maha Zeyapahta Brick Bridge located in ancient city Inwa has drawn the attention of visitors who want to take photoshooting and videomaking, according to writer and researcher Bo Shake (Yadanapura).
The bridge is about one mile long from Hanthawady Gate in the south to TadaU Mingalar Pagoda. It was first built by Min Swe also known as King Min Khaung I, and renovated by Salin City governor U Oh, the younger brother of Nanmadaw Mei Nu in the fourth Inwa era. It was opened to the public on the 2nd waxing of Taboung in 1189 ME and also called U Oh Brick Road.
The bridge is nowadays in splendid look with its brick tiles and brick walls.
“Such a mile-long brick bridge can’t be found in Mandalay ancient city neither in Bagan ancient city, but only in Inwa. Maha Zeyapahta means the way leads to triumph. Previously, people didn’t take notice of the bridge even when they passed but felt later its feature is cultural heritage. The bridge looks attractive with shade trees and brick walls, so people come to take photos and videos,” said writer Bo Shake.
At present, preservation has been commenced at the bridge, according to residents.
The bridge is built crossing three creeks namely Myittha, Panbe and Tayoke and one moat. If it is renovated into a three-tier archway like the Inwa era’s architecture, it will draw more attention, he said. The painting in Parabeik (folded paper) about the bridge is still present and if it is restored to its original state, it will attract more foreign and local visitors, he said. — MT/ZS
