Former Bridge

Hidden in plain sight, the Former Bridge, also known as Lugou Bridge or Marco Polo Bridge, whispers stories of emperors, lions, and the echoes of war. The Former Bridge isn’t just a bridge. It’s a living timeline etched in stone and granite, spanning the Yongding River just 15 kilometers southwest of Tiananmen Square. Marco Polo himself marveled at this very bridge during his 13th-century travels, praising its beauty to anyone who would listen. His words echoed through Europe, forever linking his name to this architectural wonder. The Former Bridge stretches an impressive 266.5 meters, supported by eleven graceful arches and ten sturdy piers. But what truly captivates are the hundreds of stone lions guarding the bridge. Each lion is unique, a testament to the artistry of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Look closely, and you’ll find even more lions hidden on the larger ones, a delightful puzzle for the eye. No one knows exactly how many there are. Counts range from 482 to 496, though records hint at an original 627. Imagine the stories these lions could tell if they could speak. At each end of the Former Bridge, four majestic columns stand sentinel, each reaching 4.65 meters high. A white marble stele, perched atop a stone tortoise, commemorates the bridge’s reconstruction in 1698 by the Kangxi Emperor. Another stele bears the calligraphy of his grandson, the Qianlong Emperor, proclaiming, “Morning moon over Lugou.” This inscription has graced the bridge for over 700 years. The Former Bridge is more than just a beautiful landmark. It’s a silent witness to history, a stage for both peaceful moments and the outbreak of war. The Marco Polo Bridge Incident in 1937 marked the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War, forever etching this place into the annals of history. Today, the Former Bridge stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and a poignant reminder of the past. As you stand here, imagine the countless footsteps that have crossed this bridge over the centuries, each with their own story to tell. The Former Bridge is a bridge between eras, a tangible connection to the past, and a beautiful landmark in the heart of Beijing.