摘要：In 2009, the traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges were inscribed on UNESCO's List of the Inta

Editor's note: The traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges are a remarkable expression of Chinese engineering ingenuity and cultural heritage. These bridges are known for their elegant, durable and harmonious integration with the natural landscape.

In 2009, the traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges were inscribed on UNESCO's List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding as the tradition had declined over the years due to rapid urbanization, scarcity of timber and lack of available construction space. In 2024, they were added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition acknowledges the unique construction techniques, cultural significance and artistic value of these wooden arch bridges.

Traditional Chinese wooden arch bridges can be traced back to the long scroll of the "Along the River During the Qingming Festival," an iconic painting of the Northern Song dynasty (960-1127). Early forms of wooden arch bridges were designed as simple structures to span rivers, streams and ravines, essential for facilitating trade and communication in areas where stone or metal construction was impractical due to resource constraints.

The wooden arch bridge is distinguished by its graceful curve, which distributes the weight of the structure efficiently. These bridges typically consist of an arch made from timber that is supported by a series of interlocking beams, which allow the structure to withstand considerable pressure without requiring heavy external supports. The precision with which the wood is shaped, assembled and maintained is key to the bridge's longevity. This design was seen as an engineering marvel of its time, combining practicality with aesthetic elegance.

The construction of these bridges was closely linked to traditional Chinese values such as harmony with nature, community cooperation and sustainability. The methods used in building wooden arch bridges rely on a deep understanding of the properties of wood, local construction techniques, and the environment in which the bridge is built. Craftsmen often relied on local materials, and many bridges were designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Over the centuries, these bridges have evolved in design but retained core structural principles.

Today, traditional techniques for constructing wooden arch bridges face significant challenges. The rapid modernization of infrastructure and the availability of concrete and steel have led to the decline of wooden bridge construction. However, many rural areas still rely on these traditional bridges for local transportation and social activities, and several ancient wooden arch bridges continue to be used today, albeit with modern maintenance techniques.

Efforts to preserve this heritage have been led by local communities, government initiatives and heritage organizations. In some regions, wooden arch bridges are protected as cultural landmarks, and skilled artisans continue to pass down traditional building techniques. Projects have been undertaken to restore and maintain bridges using traditional methods, ensuring that they continue to stand as symbols of China's architectural and cultural heritage.

Moreover, there has been increasing recognition of the value of these bridges in culture and tourism promotion. Local governments and cultural institutions have promoted the traditional design and construction techniques through workshops, exhibitions and educational programs, encouraging younger generations to learn these practices. Additionally, a number of wooden arch bridges have become popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors interested in both the beauty of the structures and the cultural stories they embody.

In recognizing the traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges, UNESCO emphasized the sophisticated craftsmanship and ingenuity behind these structures, highlighting their deep connection to local culture, community and environment. The organization praised the bridges for their balance of functionality and beauty, noting their ability to stand the test of time despite the challenges posed by the elements and the passage of centuries.

UNESCO's recognition also focused on the role of these bridges in facilitating communication and social interactions within Chinese rural communities. The bridges were described as not just functional infrastructure, but as a reflection of Chinese cultural ideals, such as harmony with nature, respect for tradition, and the importance of community collaboration.

UNESCO further stressed the need for safeguarding these techniques, particularly given the diminishing number of skilled craftsmen able to maintain these traditional methods. The inclusion on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity serves as both a tribute to the wisdom embedded in this ancient tradition and a call to preserve the knowledge and practices associated with Chinese wooden arch bridges for future generations.

Discover more treasures from China on UNESCO's ICH list:

• 2024: Spring Festival

• 2022: Traditional tea processing

来源：中国网