Research On Stone Arch Bridges Of Yuhang,Zhejiang

Yuhang is located in the south of the Yangtze River and is a "water village".There are 36 stone arch bridges,but the vast majority is "kept in purdah with no knowledge".Overall,most of Yuhang stone arch bridges are from the Ming and Qing Dynasties while in a relatively mature stage of development,but the difference between the east and the west is relatively large.In the western mountainous area,they are primitive and simple,while relatively light and beautiful in the eastern part of the river.Dongjian Bridge is oldest in Yuhang District with a clear chronology.Guangji Bridge is the only seven hole stone arch bridge the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal,using thin arch technique with thin pier and representing the Yuhang stone arch bridge construction of the highest level and ancient wisdom of the working people.This paper based on the third national heritage survey from 2007 to 2009,the author gives sustained attention to the Yuhang stone arch bridges,combined with existing literatures and research results,giving a systematic summarization on the type,construction techniques,social function and culture of them,etc.The existing research results are enriched,at the same time,the protection and utilization of ancient bridge heritage are historical interpreted,while providing academic support for the dissemination of ancient bridge culture.