Standing watch over the city as it has done for centuries, the Xian City Wall is a key attraction and here’s more on this incredible historical landmark.
China’s Most Complete Ancient City Wall
Testament to its construction, this structure is the country’s most complete ancient city wall. China’s only fortification that has its rectangular circuit intact and unbroken, it features gate and arrow towers, drawbridges, parapets and turrets. It’s also easily accessible from city centre hotels in Xian which lie adjacent to the 12-metre-high walls.
A Wall of Many Gates
Interestingly, there are four main gates amongst many others that provide access to this site namely the South, North, West and East gates. Of these, the most popular is the South Gate (Yongning Gate) which is a five-minute walk from Grand Park Xian and where you can not only easily explore the wall but watch cultural performances too.
Built by the Ming Dynasty’s First Emperor
The Xian City Wall was built under the orders of the Ming Dynasty’s first emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang. Constructed from 1370 to 1378, it became one of the world’s most impressive military defence systems. It protected Xian which was the imperial capital for many Chinese dynasties and from where journeys on the Silk Road began.
You Can Cycle on Top of The Wall
As strange as this may sound, you can indeed enjoy pedal-powered adventures on top of the Xian City Wall; of course, you need to consider that this structure has a width of 15 metres and covers 14 km! Bicycles can be easily rented at the four main gates and it takes around two hours to complete the entire length amidst stunning views.
