Zhaozhou

Zhaozhou is a county in Hebei province, China. It is administered by the prefecture-level city of Shijiazhuang. The county is historically significant, particularly for being the location of the Zhaozhou Bridge, also known as the Anji Bridge. This bridge is a marvel of ancient Chinese engineering, built during the Sui Dynasty. It is one of the oldest large-span stone arch bridges in the world still in existence.

The area of Zhaozhou has been inhabited for centuries, with archaeological evidence suggesting settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. During imperial China, it was an important administrative and economic center. The Zhaozhou Bridge, completed in 605 AD, was a testament to the advanced construction techniques of the time, utilizing a segmental arch design that was innovative for its era. This allowed for a more adaptable and lighter structure compared to earlier full-arch bridges.

Modern Zhaozhou continues to be an agricultural region, with its economy based on farming. The Zhaozhou Bridge remains a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the county's rich heritage. The county's name, Zhaozhou, is derived from the historical Zhaozhou Commandery. The population primarily consists of Han Chinese. The county's administrative structure is typical of Chinese counties, with a county seat and several towns and townships.