Yongshui Bridge

Yongshui Bridge

Yongshui Bridge is a cultural relic protection unit of Haishu District.

Yongshui Bridge is located near the ancient Yongshui Gate of the old city, from which it derives its name. It is also known as Xiajia Bridge or Xiajia Bridge. Spanning the Nantang River, it connects to Nanjiao Road in the east and Zhoujiayan in the west, serving as the critical passage where waters from Tashan and Jiaokou enter Yinxian. The exact time of its initial construction is unknown. The existing structure is a stone arch bridge, renovated in the 25th year of the Guangxu reign during the Qing Dynasty (1899), measuring 22.3 meters in length and 3.3 meters in width. Stone railings are installed on both sides, each featuring six square and round balusters with lotus carvings on the tops. On the northern and southern ends, there is one pair of stone qilin (mythical beasts) on each side, depicted with their heads raised, symbolizing the warding off of water spirits to protect the bridge. Additionally, there are water-spouting beast heads designed to drain water. The construction of the bridge not only facilitated transportation between urban and rural areas but also complemented the picturesque scenery of the water town and the thriving rural landscape.