How many stone lions do you think are here? Welcome to the Marco Polo Bridge. This bridge is also known as the Lugou Bridge. It stands as a testament to both artistic achievement and historical significance.
The Marco Polo Bridge is a very fine stone bridge. It has very few equals in the world. That is according to Marco Polo himself. He visited it in the 13th century.
Let’s take a closer look at the Marco Polo Bridge. Notice its structure. It stretches 266.5 meters long and 9.3 meters wide. The bridge is supported by 10 piers and 11 segmental arches. These arches give it a distinctive and elegant appearance.
But it is the hundreds of stone lions that truly captivate. They line both sides of the Marco Polo Bridge. Each lion is unique. Each has a different artistic style. It is said that there are more lions hiding on the head and back of the big lions. Some are even under the belly or on the paws of the big lions.
The people of Beijing say that the lions of the Lugou Bridge are too numerous to count. There may have originally been 627 lions. They vary in posture and age. Most lions date from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Some are from the earlier Yuan dynasty. The few lions from the Jin dynasty are now quite rare.
For 800 years, the Marco Polo Bridge has been a well known scenic spot in Beijing. It is not just about aesthetics, though. The Marco Polo Bridge is also an architectural masterpiece. It is built of granite. A large central arch is flanked by ten smaller ones. Triangular iron pillars protect each of the ten piers. They prevent damage from floods and ice.
Now, let’s step back in time to July 7, 1937. The Japanese army launched a military exercise near the Marco Polo Bridge. They claimed a soldier was missing. They asked to enter Wanping County to look for him. The Chinese army rejected this request. The Japanese used it as an excuse to launch a full scale attack.
The intruding Japanese forces assaulted the Marco Polo Bridge. Chinese defending soldiers responded with gunfire. This became known as the Lugou Bridge Incident. It marked the beginning of Japan’s all out aggression against China. It also marked the start of China’s War of Resistance to Japan. Thereafter, July 7 became the day to mark the incident.
The Chinese people fought courageously against the Japanese for eight years. They achieved final victory on August 15, 1945. This was when Japan surrendered unconditionally.
Today, the Marco Polo Bridge stands as a symbol of resilience. It reminds us of China’s struggle for freedom. It also showcases exquisite artistry. It connects us to both the past and the present.
As you leave the Marco Polo Bridge, reflect on its beauty and history. Remember the countless stories. Remember the brave souls who defended it. Carry their spirit with you. Let it inspire you on your journey through Beijing.