Did you know that:
– The ancient Chinese began building fortifications as early as the 8th century BC.
– The first emperor of the Qin dynasty unified the existing sections into a cohesive system between 221–206 BC.
– Most of the Wall was built during the Ming dynasty (1386–1644).
– Contrary to popular belief, the Wall is not visible to the naked eye from outer space.
– The Great Wall has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
Built in 1372 in a valley surrounded by mountains. According to popular legend, the planning was so precise that only one brick remained after construction, perfectly matching the material estimates.
Located 70 km from central Beijing. A must-see for foreign leaders visiting China. Notable visitors include Richard Nixon, Margaret Thatcher, Ronald Reagan, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Queen Elizabeth II.
At the end of 1932, the Japanese army invaded Rehe province. The 10th Corps of the Revolutionary Army, led by General Song Zheyuan, attempted to defend the Wall’s line. The province eventually fell under Japanese control, including areas west of Beijing (then called Beiping).
A scenic viewpoint north of Beijing, winding around man-made reservoirs. Despite its breathtaking views, this section attracts fewer tourists than other parts of the Wall.
A clash between the Mongols and the Ming dynasty, fought on September 1, 1449. Due to poor preparation by the Chinese army, it became one of the greatest military disasters in Chinese history. Emperor Zhu Qizhen was captured by the Mongols.
Built in 1368 during the Ming dynasty. This section has not been restored and follows rugged mountain ridges. It is popular among climbers and adventurers.
After the fall of the Shanhaiguan fortress to the Manchus in 1638, Ming forces retreated inland. In 1642, the imperial troops were definitively defeated, paving the way for the rise of the Qing dynasty.
A fortress at the eastern end of the Wall, on the shores of the Bohai Gulf. Built in 1381, it was for centuries the Wall’s most strategic point, considered the “gateway” to Beijing and northern China.