Spean Praptos: ancient Cambodian bridge and national symbol

Spean Praptos: ancient Cambodian bridge and national symbol. Spean Praptos means "bridge of escape" in Khmer; local tradition holds the royal family fled across it during an ambush Located approximately 40 miles from Angkor Wat in Cambodia, spanning the Chi Krang River ("great ancestor") Described as the longest corbelled stone arch bridge in the world; still in active daily use by motorcycles, tractors, and pedestrians

About 40 miles from Angkor Wat, the 12th-century Spean Praptos spans the Chi Krang River and was once the longest corbelled stone arch bridge in the world. Still used daily by motorbikes and tractors, it even held a 36-ton T-54 tank during the Khmer Rouge era. It proudly appears on Cambodia's 5,000 riel banknote! 🌉

Key Facts

• Spean Praptos means "bridge of escape" in Khmer; local tradition holds the royal family fled across it during an ambush
• Located approximately 40 miles from Angkor Wat in Cambodia, spanning the Chi Krang River ("great ancestor")
• Described as the longest corbelled stone arch bridge in the world; still in active daily use by motorcycles, tractors, and pedestrians
• During the Khmer Rouge regime, a 36-ton T-54 tank was driven across the bridge without collapse
• The bridge is printed on Cambodia's 5,000 riel banknote
• Reportedly built approximately 1,000 years ago (Khmer Empire era)

Source: They Destroyed Every Face On This Ancient Bridge. What Were They Hiding? by PraveenMohan