Centenary bridge stands the test of time Monday, February 24, 2014 | 16:51:43 (VOVworld) - Long Bien bridge is often referred to as Hanoi’s “bridge of the poor”. It swarms with ragged laborers from early morning till midnight. The 2,290-m bridge was built between 1899 and 1902 by the French, and opened to traffic in 1903. Over the past 100 years, the steel structure has had a close association with Hanoi’s trials and tribulations and has witnessed many historic events. Spanning three centuries and suffering war wounds, the bridge has still stood the test of time, linking the two banks of the Red River. Long Bien bridge’s destiny is closely linked with Hanoi. It is a symbol and part of the capital city. Long Bien Bridge spans the Red River. Dawn breaks at one end in Gia Lam district It is closely associated with the image of hard-working people traveling across it to earn a living This is why Long Bien is called “the bridge of the poor” Along the bridge, a rail line is separated from roads on both sides Local people are engaged in farming under the bridge A fishing village in the dry season Small makeshift markets open up on both roadsides of the bridge A new day begins for hard-working farmers A warden begins his daily routine of ensuring safety for trains Over the past century, the bridge has experienced many ups and downs It looks very romantic in the crescent moonlight The attached plaque records the date that the bridge was built Tag VOV VOVworld centenary bridge stands the test of time Long Bien bridge the bridge of the poor Feedback Submit Others Unique hair washing ritual of white Thai ethnic group Apricot tree attracts customers despite high prices Phuc Dien pomelo garden as a dreamy location to check-in as Tet approaches Preparations underway at Tay Tuu flower village ahead of Tet