苇沟桥

Why is Lugou Bridge called “Marco Polo Bridge” in the West? We are standing before Lugou Bridge, a landmark steeped in history. It’s officially named Lugou, meaning “reed ditch.” But in the West, it is often referred to as “Marco Polo Bridge,” thanks to the famous explorer’s account of it in his travels. The bridge has witnessed centuries of history, spanning dynasties and wars. Lugou Bridge was initially built in 1192 during the Ming Dynasty. It’s been a crucial crossing point of the Yongding River, connecting Beijing to the outside world. Lugou Bridge is considered one of the “Four Great Ancient Bridges of China.” The bridge’s construction began in 1189 under Emperor Shizong of Jin. It was completed in 1192 and initially named Guangli Bridge. It was later renamed Lugou Bridge due to its location over Lugou River, a section of the Yongding. Lugou Bridge isn’t just about beautiful stonework and lion sculptures. It played a pivotal role in the start of the Second Sino-Japanese War. On the night of July 7, 1937, Japanese troops conducted a military exercise near the bridge. They claimed a soldier was missing and demanded entry to Wanping City, adjacent to the bridge. When Chinese forces refused, the Japanese attacked the bridge and Wanping City. This incident, known as the Lugou Bridge Incident or the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, became the catalyst for the full-scale invasion of China by Japan, marking the beginning of World War II in Asia. Despite the war’s devastation, the bridge remains largely intact. The core structure, including the bridge’s foundation and some of the stone carvings, dates back to the original Jin Dynasty construction. Following the war, Lugou Bridge was restored and has since become a poignant symbol of Chinese resistance against foreign aggression and a popular tourist attraction. The bridge is 268 meters long and 9.4 meters wide. It features stone pillars, balustrades, and watchtowers. The watchtowers at each end of the bridge feature stone carvings. These carvings, including lions, are said to be from the Jin Dynasty and have been preserved. Today, Lugou Bridge stands not only as a historical marvel but also as a monument to peace. It serves as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy and understanding in a world where conflict is an ever-present threat.