Gazing upon the majestic Marco Polo Bridge, one can almost hear the echoes of history. This iconic structure, also known as Lugou Bridge, stands as a testament to time, art, and resilience. It stretches across the Yongding River, approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Beijing’s heart. The Marco Polo Bridge isn’t named after the Venetian explorer because he built it. It earned its name because he documented its splendor in his famed “Travels of Marco Polo”. The bridge’s true name is Lugou Bridge. Its construction began in 1189 during China’s Jin Dynasty. The bridge is an impressive 266.5 meters long and 7.5 meters wide, crafted entirely of stone. Eleven lunar-shaped arches support the bridge, a testament to the engineering ingenuity of the time. Look closely and you’ll discover a parade of 485 stone lions, each uniquely carved, guarding the bridge. These lions are more than just decorations. They represent the artistic prowess of craftsmen from different dynasties, each adding their own flair to these silent sentinels. The Marco Polo Bridge has borne witness to pivotal moments in Chinese history, most notably the Marco Polo Bridge Incident in 1937. This event marked the start of the Second Sino-Japanese War, forever etching the bridge’s name into the annals of history. Today, the Marco Polo Bridge stands as a powerful symbol of China’s resilience and artistic heritage. It beckons visitors to reflect on the past while appreciating the bridge’s enduring beauty.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to