Guide to Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China

Along with the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China was also listed as a World Heritage by the UNESCO in 1987. It is one of the greatest wonders of the world. It stretches approximately 8,851.8 kilometres (5,500 miles) from Shanhaiguan Pass of Hebei Province in the east to Jiayuguan Pass of Gansu Province in the west of China. It is one of the most attractive tourist spot of the world because of its splendid beauty, architectural grandeur, ancient engineering marvel and historical significance. In reality, the Great Wall of China is not just a Wall, it is a complete defence venture. It comprises of watchtowers, beacon towers, garrison towns, blockhouses and countless passes. In fact, the fortifications were completely controlled by the military command system.

The Origin

It has a history of more than 2000 years and is therefore an essential part of Chinese history and culture. The Wall was constructed by the use of stones above mountain ranges and in case of plains; they used stamping or rammed earth and gravel. Later stones and bricks were used to make the fortification even stronger. The building of the Wall started around 11th century B.C during the rule of Western Zhou Dynasty. Among the others, the Qin and Ming Dynasty had a great role to play in the building and revival of the Great Wall. The Ming Dynasty strengthened the Great Wall to a large extent pushing it to its highest summit.

The Purpose

The Wall was built by the Kings mainly for defending purposes. The Wall was to protect the citizens from the attack of weapons such as spears and swords. It was also built to prevent the influx of nomadic tribe and enemy people into the country like the Mongols and Manchus.

The Must-See Sections of the Great Wall of China

The most visited parts of the great Wall include the Badaling Great Wall, the Beijing Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall, Mutianyu Great Wall, Jinshanling Great Wall and Gubeikou in Beijing. The Chinese Government has recently opened the Great Wall’s other sections that include Shanhaiguan in Hebei Province. The rest are the Huangyaguan in Tianjin and Jiayuguan in Gansu Province. Some passes are also of great attraction like the ShanHaiguan Pass of the Great Wall and the Huangyaguan Pass of the Great Wall that provides excellent view and are of historical importance.

When to Visit

The best times to visit the Great Wall are during the spring season like the month of May and Autumn season like the month of September or early October. The weather is usually comfortable and sunny during these months. June to August can also act as an alternative option.

The Great Wall of China was built over a long period of time that involved many centuries and many generations of people. It is a symbol of glory to the people of China and is very close to their hearts. The people in order to keep alive the Chinese culture and history, created and spread a number of legends and stories. While some described historical details, others reiterated the fact that the Wall was built as a result of the efforts of hundreds of commoners.