Before walking into the faith of the Golden Mount or Phu Khao Thong, many people may have walked past a concrete bridge with a statue of a crying person standing majestically. This bridge is officially named "Mahadthai Uthit Bridge" or, as locals call it, "Saphan Rong Hai" (Weeping Bridge). It was built during the reign of King Rama VI to commemorate the grace of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). The construction funds came from the collection of salaries from civil servants of the Ministry of Interior.
The unique feature that makes this bridge stand out and look sacred is the bas-relief sculpture of men, women, and children in sorrow, which conveys the grief of the people at the end of the reign of King Rama V. The bridge is designed in a delicate and beautiful European style. Although it is a small bridge that crosses the Mahanak Canal, it is full of spiritual stories and the bond between the monarchy and the Thai people.
Another story that is widely talked about in the social world is the strangeness of the sidewalk on this bridge, which is said to be one of the narrowest sidewalks in Bangkok, with a width of only about one foot span. This makes people have to swerve or be especially careful when walking past each other, becoming a charm mixed with a little excitement for pedestrians who like to explore the old town area.
Visiting the Mahadthai Uthit Bridge on a holiday is not just walking past to see the view of the Golden Mount, but it is about experiencing living art and tangible history. If anyone has the opportunity to come to Boriphat Road, don't forget to try walking on this narrowest sidewalk once. I guarantee that you will get beautiful pictures and impressive stories to fill your happiness for sure
