Construction
Influential Chinese engineer Li Ch'un builds the Great Stone Bridge over the Chiao Shui River in northern China, the first example of a segmental arch bridge. It survives intact today. See also 600 bce Construction.
Food & agricultureAn Italian monk invents pretzels as a reward to children who learn their prayers. He calls the strips of baked dough, folded to resemble arms crossing the breast, pretiola ("little reward").
TransportationChinese Emperor Yangdi completes a major section of the Grand Canal, linking the Yangtze and the Huang He (Yellow River); this round of construction starts in 605, although construction of the first segments dates back at least until 70. Some parts may have been based on canals dug as early as 500 bce. See also 70 ce Transportation; 1327 Transportation.
