“How many lions do you think are on this bridge?” That is the question that has baffled visitors to the Marco Polo Bridge for centuries. Welcome to the \u6d33\u6cb3\u6865. Also known as the Marco Polo Bridge, this historical site is more than just a beautiful stone structure. It is a testament to China’s rich past. It is a symbol of both cultural exchange and military conflict.
The \u6d33\u6cb3\u6865 stands 15 kilometers southwest of Beijing in the Fengtai District. It elegantly spans the Yongding River. This river is a vital tributary of the Hai River. Originally, the river was called Heishui, meaning Black Water. In ancient times, “lu” meant black. So the river became known as the Lugou River. Consequently, the bridge took on the same name.
Its story began in 1189. Construction finished in 1192 during the Jin Dynasty. After flood damage, the bridge was rebuilt in 1698 under the Qing Dynasty’s Kangxi Emperor. The Marco Polo Bridge gained international fame. The Venetian traveler Marco Polo praised it during his 13th-century visit to China. He said it had very few equals in the world.
However, the bridge is also known for a more somber event. In 1937, the Marco Polo Bridge Incident occurred here. This marked the start of the Second Sino-Japanese War.
After 1949, the bridge was covered in asphalt. It carried motor vehicles. Today, the \u6d33\u6cb3\u6865 stretches 266.5 meters long and 9.3 meters wide. It rests on 10 piers and 11 arches. Hundreds of unique stone lions line both sides. These lions are the bridge’s most intriguing feature. Many smaller lions hide on the heads, backs, bellies, or paws of the larger ones. Locals say the lions are too numerous to count.
There may have originally been 627 lions. Each has a different posture and age. Most lions date from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Some are from the earlier Yuan dynasty. The few remaining Jin Dynasty lions are rare.
Besides its beauty, the Marco Polo Bridge is an architectural marvel. It is made of granite. A large central arch is flanked by ten smaller ones. Triangular iron pillars protect each pier. These pillars prevent damage from floods and ice.
The Marco Polo Bridge Incident took place on July 7, 1937. The Japanese army was conducting military exercises near the bridge. They claimed a soldier was missing. They demanded entry into Wanping County to search. When China refused, Japan launched a full-scale attack. Chinese soldiers responded with gunfire. This event triggered Japan’s full aggression against China. It also marked the beginning of China’s War of Resistance to Japan. The Chinese fought bravely for eight years. They achieved final victory on August 15, 1945, when Japan surrendered.
The \u6d33\u6cb3\u6865 stands as a symbol of resilience. It is a reminder of both cultural exchange and conflict. As you leave, remember the countless lions guarding its path. Consider the history beneath your feet.