Yongtong Bridge, Stone arch bridge in Zhao County, China
Yongtong Bridge is a stone structure crossing the Xiao River with a span of roughly 26 meters and a single circular arch. The design reflects building techniques developed in ancient China and continues to serve as a passage for pedestrians through the area.
The bridge was first built around 765 during the Tang dynasty, though some scholars place its construction between 1190 and 1196. Its enduring design allowed it to survive natural weathering and remain functional for over eight centuries.
The bridge's name means 'eternal passage' and reflects how the local community valued engineering skill in crossing waterways. Stone inscriptions carved into the structure document the builders who shaped this crossing.
Visitors can walk across the bridge and examine its stonework up close from various angles. Daytime visits offer the best visibility for viewing the carved details and overall structure.
The builders sourced stone from the local area and refined their joinery techniques to protect against cracking and weathering. This approach to using available materials and skilled craftsmanship extended the bridge's life far beyond typical structures of its era.
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