Every building has its unique soul, telling different stories. Let us step into the wonderful world of the Great Wall and discover the secrets hidden within its bricks and stones.
Building Overview
The Great Wall is a symbol of the outstanding culture of the Chinese nation, recognized as one of the greatest buildings in the world. It was first built during the Qin Dynasty and has withstood thousands of years of wind and rain, still standing proudly on Chinese soil. The Great Wall is the longest construction project in human history, representing the greatest military defense project of the ancient world. It consists mainly of walls, complemented by numerous forts, watchtowers, and beacon towers, showcasing the wisdom of our ancient laborers. The Great Wall is a source of pride for the Chinese people; standing atop it and gazing into the distance, the undulating wall resembles a giant dragon winding through the green mountains, guarding the land of China, evoking a deep sense of national pride.
Building History
The history of the Great Wall can be traced back to the Western Zhou period, with the famous tale of “beacons and fire signaling the feudal lords” originating from this time. During the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, various states built walls for defense, leading to the first peak in construction. After Qin Shi Huang unified the six states, he connected and renovated the walls built during the Warring States, earning it the name “Great Wall.” The Ming Dynasty was the last to extensively repair the Wall, and most of what we see today was built during this period.
On March 4, 1961, the Great Wall was announced as a key cultural heritage site by the State Council. In December 1987, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Important passes include Jiayuguan, Shanhaiguan, Juyongguan, and Yumenguan. Jiayuguan, known as the “First Fortress under Heaven,” is located in a narrow valley west of Jiayuguan City in Gansu Province. The walls extend across deserts and gorges, connecting to the Black Mountain and marking the westernmost point of the Ming Great Wall. Historically, it was known as the throat of the Hexi Corridor and, due to its strategic location, is one of the three wonders of the Great Wall.
