Ming Dynasty bridge unearthed in eastern China's Anhui

An ancient bridge has been discovered at the site of the Middle Capital of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Fengyang city of East China's Anhui province.

An ancient bridge has been unearthed at the historic site of the Middle Capital of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) 
in Fengyang city of East China's Anhui province [Credit: VCG]

According to archaeologists, the bridge was constructed with grey bricks during Ming Dynasty and had been in service since completion.

Archaeological staff members clean up the mud on the periphery of the ancient bridge at the historic site of the Middle 
Capital of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Fengyang city of East China's Anhui province, April 9, 2017 
[Credit: VCG]

In 1970s, due to road construction, the bridge was buried under the ground. However, it was not until last year that the ancient bridge was excavated again.

The ancient bridge was constructed with grey bricks [Credit: VCG]

Chen Huairen, an expert on Ming Dyansty, said the bridge was located at Yunji Street, a second axis that crossed the main axis of the city.

Aerial view of the historical site of the Middle Capital of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Fengyang city 
of East China's Anhui province, April 9, 2017 [Credit: VCG]

Other ancient capital cities Xi'an and Beijing only had one city axis in north-south direction, but the Middle Capital of Ming Dynasty in Fengyang had two, which makes it unique in city planning, said Chen.

Some parts of the Middle Capital of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Fengyang city have been restored 
[Credit: VCG]

At the site, Donghua Gate, Southeastern Corner Tower, and Merdian Gate of the Middle Capital of Ming Dynasty have been restored.

Source: China Daily [April 10, 2017]