Across the Yongding River stands the magnificent Marco Polo Bridge. Its 11 arches stretch gracefully. They have spanned the river for centuries. This is Lugou Bridge. A symbol of Beijing’s rich history. It’s a testament to enduring strength.
The Marco Polo Bridge wasn’t always known by that name. In fact. the locals called it Lugou Bridge. Lugou means “Reed Ditch.” This refers to the Yongding River’s former name. It was also known as the Lu Kow Kiao. This name can be found on old bilingual signs. The name “Marco Polo Bridge” came later. Marco Polo himself praised the bridge. This made it famous in Europe.
Construction of the original bridge began in 1189. It finished in 1192 under the Jin Dynasty. Floods damaged it. So Emperor Kangxi oversaw a reconstruction in 1698. Two marble stelae mark this event. One stele boasts the Qianlong Emperor’s calligraphy. It reads Morning moon over Lugou.
But the bridge is more than just stone and mortar. It’s adorned with hundreds of stone lions. These aren’t ordinary lions. They’re intricately carved. Some are small. They’re hidden on the larger lions’ bodies. This playful detail makes counting them a frustrating challenge. Estimates range from 482 to 501. Records claim there were originally 627. Each lion has a unique pose. They represent different eras. Many date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. A few are even from the earlier Jin Dynasty.
The Marco Polo Bridge is also infamous for a darker chapter. It marked the start of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937. This pivotal event changed history forever. The bridge became a symbol of resistance and resilience.
Today. the Marco Polo Bridge is a treasured landmark. It’s a place where history and beauty intertwine. Visitors stroll across its ancient stones. They marvel at the intricate carvings. The whispers of history echo all around. The lions stand guard. Silent witnesses to centuries of stories. It is a site you should not miss. A journey through time.