Nestled on the outskirts of Beijing, the Marco Polo Bridge (also known as Lugou Bridge) has silently witnessed centuries of Chinese history. With its graceful stone arches and mysterious marble lions, this ancient structure inspired awe in the famous Venetian explorer Marco Polo—and continues to captivate visitors today. But the bridge isn’t just a beautiful landmark. It’s also the site of a pivotal event that shaped modern China.
In this article, we’ll uncover the bridge’s fascinating origins, explore why it holds such cultural importance, and discover the stories—both legendary and historical—that surround it. Ready to journey across time? Let’s step onto the Marco Polo Bridge and see what secrets it holds.
The Marco Polo Bridge: Gateway to Chinese History and Culture
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The Marco Polo Bridge, also known as Lugou Bridge, stands not only as a magnificent feat of ancient engineering but also as a silent witness to some of China’s most significant historical events. Located just southwest of Beijing, this bridge has captured the imaginations of travelers, artists, and historians for centuries. Let’s journey through its arches and explore its origins, enduring cultural symbolism, and the pivotal moments that have given it an extraordinary place in Chinese memory.
Origins and Ancient History
Architectural Marvel of the Jin Dynasty
The Marco Polo Bridge dates back to the late 12th century. Construction began in 1189 during the Jin Dynasty and was completed in 1192. At more than 800 years old, it is the oldest surviving stone arch bridge in Beijing. Originally known as the Guangli Bridge, it later took the name Lugou Bridge, after the Lugou (Yongding) River it crosses.
The bridge stretches 266.5 meters (874 feet) in length and 9.3 meters (30.5 feet) in width. Supported by 281 sturdy granite pillars and spanning 11 elegant arches, its robust design has allowed it to survive flooding, warfare, and the passage of countless travelers.
Marco Polo’s Admiration
The bridge received its Western name from the renowned Venetian explorer Marco Polo. During his travels in China in the 13th century, Marco Polo described the bridge in his journal as “one of the finest in the world.” His awe at the bridge’s scale and artistry helped introduce it to global audiences, cementing its status as a wonder of both East and West.
A Symbol of Cultural Richness
The Bridge of Stone Lions
Perhaps the most iconic feature of the Marco Polo Bridge is its astonishing collection of stone lions. Each of the 281 granite pillars is topped with at least one stone lion, but many hide smaller lions within their design. In total, over 500 lions are sculpted in various postures and expressions, some regal, others playful.
For centuries, these lions have inspired a Chinese proverb: “The lions of Lugou Bridge—hard to count!” The tradition of counting and admiring the lions is beloved by both locals and tourists, adding a playful yet reverent element to the bridge’s allure.
Artistic Motifs and Symbolism
Stone lions, or “shishi,” are traditional guardians in Chinese architecture. Their presence on the bridge symbolizes protection and strength, ensuring safe passage for travelers and warding off evil. The bridge’s artistry also includes inscriptions by emperors and poets, further layering its cultural significance.
The Marco Polo Bridge in History
The Site of the Lugouqiao Incident
The Marco Polo Bridge is inseparably linked to modern Chinese history as the flashpoint of the Second Sino-Japanese War. On the night of July 7, 1937, a conflict erupted between Chinese and Japanese troops in the vicinity of the bridge and the nearby Wanping Fortress. The Japanese army, stationed nearby under the pretense of conducting military exercises, used the excuse of a missing soldier to demand entry into Chinese-held territory.
Chinese soldiers at Wanping Fortress refused, leading to armed clashes that escalated over several days. This event, known in China as the Lugouqiao (Marco Polo Bridge) Incident or the “July 7th Incident,” marked the beginning of the full-scale war between China and Japan—a conflict that would become one of the bloodiest theaters of World War II in Asia.
A Site of Memory and Education
Today, the area surrounding the bridge is home to the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Exhibits commemorate the sacrifices made during the war and the importance of the bridge as a symbol of national resilience and pride.
Significance in Daily Life and Traditions
A Living Landmark
For Beijing residents and visitors alike, the Marco Polo Bridge is a popular destination. Locals often bring their children here, not only to appreciate its beauty but also to learn about its storied past. The custom of counting stone lions, trying to spot the hidden ones, remains a favorite activity that bridges generations—literally and figuratively.
A Place for Reflection and Commemoration
On the anniversary of the July 7th Incident, ceremonies are held at the bridge to honor the lives lost in the struggle against aggression. For many, visiting the bridge is both a patriotic act and a way of connecting with the nation’s difficult yet triumphant history.
Variations and Related Bridges
Stone Arch Bridges in China
While the Marco Polo Bridge is the oldest and most famous in Beijing, China is home to several other historic stone arch bridges, each with its own charm—like Zhaozhou Bridge in Hebei and the Precious Belt Bridge in Suzhou. However, no other bridge combines history, artistry, and cultural symbolism quite like the Marco Polo Bridge.
Related Structures: The Wanping Fortress
Adjacent to the bridge is Wanping Fortress, a 17th-century walled city built to defend Beijing’s southwestern approaches. This fortress played a crucial role during the events of the July 7th Incident and can still be visited today, offering further historical context and architectural intrigue.
Myths, Anecdotes, and Interesting Facts
The Mystery of the Lion Count
Legend says that no two lions on the bridge are exactly alike. Over centuries, attempts to count them have always yielded different results, because tiny lion cubs are hidden among the larger sculptures—on the backs, under the bellies, and even in the paws of their stone parents. The challenge and delight of finding them has entertained countless children (and adults!) over the years.
Stories Etched in Stone
Some of the bridge’s pillars and courses bear inscriptions from famous figures—including emperors and poets. The Kangxi Emperor of the Qing Dynasty personally recorded an inscription hailing the bridge’s beauty, underscoring its imperial and artistic prestige.
The Bridge in Literature and Art
Paintings, poems, and even revolutionary propaganda have depicted the bridge, tying its image to both traditional artistry and the memory of resistance. Its unique blend of beauty and sorrow—via the lions, the arches, and its wartime scars—has cemented its place in the cultural consciousness.
The Marco Polo Bridge Today
Tourism and Preservation
The Marco Polo Bridge, officially designated as a protected national cultural relic, draws visitors from across China and around the world. Its careful preservation and the educational facilities nearby ensure that new generations appreciate not just the facts, but the feelings and lessons the bridge imparts.
Symbol of Endurance
For Beijing—and for China as a whole—the bridge stands as a symbol of both endurance and hope. It is a reminder of the hardships the people have overcome, as well as the enduring beauty of shared cultural heritage.
Conclusion
The Marco Polo Bridge is far more than a historic stone crossing—it is a living symbol of China’s resilience, artistry, and memory. Spanning the centuries from imperial grandeur through revolutionary strife, it offers all who cross it a tangible connection to the stories that have shaped Chinese civilization. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a traveler seeking meaning, the Marco Polo Bridge awaits with lessons whispered in stone and memories carved beneath your feet.
FAQ
1. Why is it called the Marco Polo Bridge?
The bridge was named after Marco Polo, the famous Venetian explorer, who visited China in the 13th century. In his travel writings, he described the bridge as one of the finest in the world, and Western readers became familiar with it as “Marco Polo’s Bridge.” Its original Chinese name is Lugou Bridge.
2. Where is the Marco Polo Bridge located?
It is situated about 15 kilometers (9 miles) southwest of central Beijing, spanning the Yongding River in the Fengtai District.
3. How old is the Marco Polo Bridge?
Construction of the bridge began in 1189 and was completed in 1192, making it over 800 years old.
4. What is special about the lions on the bridge?
Each pillar of the bridge is topped with at least one stone lion, but many pillars include multiple lions, with some carved in hidden locations. In total, over 500 lions can be found, each with its own unique features and expressions.
5. What happened at the Marco Polo Bridge in 1937?
On July 7, 1937, a skirmish between Chinese and Japanese forces occurred at the bridge. This event, known as the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, marked the start of the full-scale Second Sino-Japanese War, a major conflict in both Chinese and world history.
6. Can you visit the Marco Polo Bridge today?
Yes! The bridge and its surrounding area are open to the public. There is also a nearby museum dedicated to the events of the Second Sino-Japanese War and the historical significance of the site.
7. What do the lions symbolize in Chinese culture?
Stone lions, or “shishi,” are traditional symbols of protection, strength, and power in Chinese culture. They are believed to guard against evil spirits and bring good luck.
8. Are there any festivals or special events at the bridge?
While there are no traditional festivals unique to the bridge itself, commemorative ceremonies are often held on July 7th each year to remember the events of the 1937 incident and those who fought in the ensuing conflict.
9. What else can you see near the bridge?
Aside from the bridge, you can visit the Wanping Fortress—a historic military fortification—and the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, which provides in-depth historical context.
10. How has the bridge been preserved?
Recognized as a national cultural relic, the bridge has undergone several restorations to repair damage from flooding and warfare. Preservation efforts focus on maintaining its original structure and the intricate detail of its stone lions and inscriptions. It stands today as both a tourist attraction and a site of historical education.
