This week’s photo challenge is Circle.
The circular form is a common architectural expression in the bridge design of China.
Many of the masonry bridges have circular openings. Structurally, they rely on the arching action in the masonry.
The first two photos were taken in FengHuang city ( or the Phoenix City ) of China.This bridge has three circular openings. The second picture shows a single opening in more detail.
The photo of the last bridge was taken in West Lake, HangZhou of China.
It is a graceful looking arch bridge, again with three spans.
When viewed with the reflection, complete circles are formed.
Reflections completing the circle–perfect for the challenge.
Thank you for your kind comment!
That last, with the reflection, is definitely a circle!
Yes, the water has to rise to a particular level so that half the circle is above and half below water.
Great shots! Do you know if those circular arches are better or not as strong than other types?
Arches are only strong in compression ( as strong as the constituent rock materials but not any stronger). Their form is such that they will be put into compression, as such, they are usually heavy and the span lengths are limited. Long span bridges are those that can resist both tension and compression.
love that bridge on the West Lake so romantic.
Yes, it is one of the most romantic bridges I have seen!
Great..
Thank you!
Beautiful captures, Michael. Love your observations about the arches of the bridges being circular. That is so true, what fine architecture and symbolic of prosperity in Chinese culture. Best wishes for the year 🙂
Yeah, the Chinese are among the first to build masonry arch bridges.
It’s awesome! And it’s amazing with the building on! Is it really a building or does it just look that way? I’ve seen similar before in Europe, south Germany and Switzerland,
It is a building; as you say, there are similar buildings on some of the bridges in Europe too!
They’re beautiful bridges Michael.
Glad that you like the bridges!
Congrats to the bridge engineers of all times. 😉
I regret that I didn’t have the chance to become one who specializes in innovative bridge design!
Haha! I’m sure your bridges were great. Did you keep a “portfolio” of your bridges?
I used to keep large photos of some of the bridges I designed or have project engineered, but I lost most of these pictures.
There is a post on my blog with photos of some 10 bridges throughout the globe. One has to do a search on my blog to find it.
Shame losing the photos. But if the bridges are still there you could do “memory lane trip” to capture your missing bridges again? 🙂
Hi, I just found out I have near 20 posts involving bridges. If you type “bridge” and search in the blog, you will find them.
You maybe interested in reading this one:
https://retireediary.wordpress.com/2013/02/25/travel-theme-bridges/
Best wishes,
Michael
A fantastic bridge post. Only one question: why are there no Paris bridges? Hmmmm?
I like many of the bridges along the Siene, problem is I lost all the photos.
Well that’s it. You have to go back then! 🙂
Yes, oneday I will go back!
Let me know when you do. See if we coincide. Most likely to meet in Paris than in HK. But then who knows? 🙂 take care Michael.
I didn’t have a good experience when I last visited Paris, hope we can meet there or anywhere one day!
Sorry about your bad Paris experience. Was it because of the oh-so-charming parisians? 😉
And I’m sure, Karma-helping we can meet someday. Meanwhile, have a great week-end.
It was somewhat chaotic, lots of people of different races trying to sell you things.
I am 11 hours from Paris and a much longer flight with change over to Mexico – a place I still haven’t visited.
Oh. Yes, I kinda remember a post of yours where you mentioned lots of street vendors intent on selling you stuff. There are a few “bands/gangs” such as those. Just ignore them. They’re a plague but harmless.
Paris is supposed to be romantic and delightful, these gang sometimes mar the happiness. Things may change, I hope it is better now and wouldn’t mind visiting again if I have the chance.
Not sure it is better. Now they shoot people. 😦 But I don’t care, I already have my flight booked for July. Yes!
Yes, let’s not be frightened by the terrorists – which otherwise will achieve their aim. I am glad that you are going to Paris. You know the reason why I am homebound.
I know. And it speaks very highly of you. Someone has to stand guard. I imagine your brother left already. And I hope your mother is as well as possible. 🙂
My brother is back in the States.
Just accompanied mom to the oncologist yesterday. Things are not looking good. The CEA is trending up, now at 47.1. The oncologist will put her on drips after the Chinese New year.
Sorry Michael. Don’t give up hope, though. Keep on with the treatment if she can take it. And if she is not in pain. “Buy” time and comfort for her.
You have again given me some very usual and practical advice – much appreciated!
With great pleasure Michael. From one “snake” to the other… 🙂
There is a typo, it should be “useful” and not “usual”. Snakes of the same year, flock together!
Haha! (A flock of snakes?) Brrrrr.
A nest of snakes?
Haha!
🙂
Beautiful bridge photos, Michael… Lots of history there! 🙂 ♥ ❤
Yes, historically rich and romantic.
Oh the stories they’d tell, if those bridges could talk… 😉 ♥ ❤
I hope they can talk too!