Conservation of the Min-Zhe wooden arch bridge: a case study of heritagization of local traditions in China

Purpose The paper aims to study the heritagization of the Min-Zhe wooden arch bridge (one kind of covered bridge) and its traditional building craftsmanship (TBC) as a typical case of the heritagization of local traditions in China. Design/methodology/approach Based on the analysis of the Min-Zhe wooden arch bridge's conservation in fifty years and field investigation of old and new bridges, the paper reviews the process of its authorized protection, analyses the relevant heritagization mechanism and discusses the influence of heritagization on the local building traditions of covered bridges on both the positive and negative aspects. Findings Thanks to heritagization, the historic Min-Zhe wooden arch bridges and the relevant TBC received good protection. However, the heritagization challenged the development of the local tradition of bridge building. It caused the falsification and desubstantiation of the Min-Zhe wooden arch bridge. It also led to the oblivion of the bridges' defining features and diverse local backgrounds. Originality/value The paper evokes reflections on the heritagization of local traditions and sets the foundation for improving conservation policies and methods in the future.