The Zhaozhou Bridge is also a wonder of architectural design for its ingenuous design and beautiful decorations. However, it is even more remarkable because it has survived for centuries.

With an eminent position in the history of bridge engineering, the Zhaozhou Bridge was listed by the State Council in China in 1961 as one of the key cultural sites under national protection; it was also designated by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1991 as the 12th milestone in the history of international civil engineering, adding new glamour to China's stone-arched bridges.

 Legend

Over the years, many beautiful folk stories about the Zhaozhou Bridge have prevailed. The following tale is the most famous:

One day, during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC), the skilful artisan Lu Ban of the State of Lu arrived on the banks of the Xiaohe River carrying his tools on his back. On the swift waters of the wide river he noticed two small ferryboats transporting passengers back and forth. A crowd of people waited anxiously on the banks -- some with wheelbarrows, others carrying heavy loads on their shoulders; but the ferryboat could only accommodate a small number of people. Suddenly, Lu heard someone say: "If only a bridge could be built over this river!" Hearing this, Lu resolved to build a bridge over Xiaohe River for the people of Zhaozhou.

According to the legend, that very evening, Lu brought back some snow-white stone blocks from the Taihang Mountains and set to work immediately. At daybreak, when the cock crowed, Lu laid the last two stone labs on the bridge. Picking up his tools, Lu went on his way again to see what else he could do for others.

Page:

1

2

3

4