UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritages in China (Ⅳ) (11)
Traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges
The item, "Traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges" was inscribed on UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding in 2009.
Wooden arch bridges are found in Fujian Province and Zhejiang Province, along China's south-east coast. The traditional design and practices for building these bridges combine the use of wood, traditional architectural tools, craftsmanship, the core technologies of 'beam-weaving' and mortise and tenon joints, and an experienced woodworker's understanding of different environments and the necessary structural mechanics.
The carpentry is directed by a woodworking master and implemented by other woodworkers.
The craftsmanship is passed on orally and through personal demonstration, or from one generation to another by masters teaching apprentices or relatives within a clan in accordance with strict procedures. These clans play an irreplaceable role in building, maintaining and protecting the bridges.
As carriers of traditional craftsmanship the arch bridges function as both communication tools and venues. They are important gathering places for local residents to exchange information, entertain, worship and deepen relationships and cultural identity.
The cultural space created by traditional Chinese arch bridges has provided an environment for encouraging communication, understanding and respect among human beings.
Photos
Related Stories
- Chicago Field Museum hosts Chinese Culture Day
- UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritages in China (Ⅲ)
- Feature: Chinese classical music resonates in ancient Swiss city
- Chinese culture exhibition held in Paris
- How China helps preserve cultural heritage sites in Asia
- Museum in NW China's Gansu uses latte art to give more people a taste of culture
- Chinese culture courses launched in Myanmar's Yangon
- Sound of replicas of Chime Bells of Marquis Yi of Zeng digitally preserved
- China encourages integrating intangible cultural heritage, tourism
- Digital technologies help revitalize ancient city wall in NW China
Copyright © 2023 People's Daily Online. All Rights Reserved.