The Far East
Arches were more than just an invention of Europe and the Mediterranean; they appeared in the Asian as well. China and India offer but a few examples of arches being used in architecture. They would continue to contribute to architecture for years to come.
Anji BridgeThe Anji Bridge is the oldest open arch bridge made out of stone to still be standing; it was built during the Sui Dynasty, completed around 605 B.C.E. This bridge was a part of a campaign of works projects by the Sui Dynasty in attempt to bring control back over China after the disintegration of the Han Dynasty. The arch and construction are so sound that it is still in use today and has survived China's tumultuous history.
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Tomb of Ghiyas ud din BalbanBalban's Tomb is so significant to Indian architecture, because it is the first time a that a true arch is used in Indian architecture. Up until 1287, Indian has used imperfect arches that did not survive because they did not distribute the weight properly. This tomb is yet another example of Islamic architecture, though it varies greatly from the Great Mosque of Cordoba. This tomb is a square building containing arched doorways and at some point probably had an arched ceiling. Although the tomb is in disrepair, the arches still stand.
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