Xiaolong Bridge

Xiaolong Bridge

Xiaolong Bridge is a cultural relic protection unit of Sichuan Province.

Xiaolong Bridge, built during the Qing Dynasty, is a two-pier, three-span stone flat-beam bridge oriented from northeast to southwest. The bridge is 6.75 meters long, 0.94 meters wide, and the bridge planks are 0.34 meters thick. Each of the two piers features a round-carved dragon, with the dragon heads and tails rising 0.25 meters above the bridge deck. The dragon heads are shaped in an "S" curve, curling upwards, with mouths open and teeth visible, flowing whiskers; the dragon claws are carved in a dynamic paddling posture; the dragon tails are coiled. The carving technique is delicate and vivid, with smooth and rounded lines, and a uniquely shaped design. As the stream that Xiaolong Bridge spans is narrow and the riverbed shallow, the bridge is submerged during flood seasons and becomes impassable. In 1999, local villagers added an extra 2.36 meters of height to the structure, resulting in its current appearance. The bridge is one of the typical representatives of Long Bridges in Luxian County. In June 2007, it was announced by the People's Government of Sichuan Province as part of the seventh batch of provincial-level cultural relic protection units.