China is a country that is famous for its attractions. Many of the country’s landmarks are recognised throughout the world. The long list of tourist spots includes places like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall of China. While the Great Wall is easily the most popular landmark in the country, it is not the only famous wall in China. The Xian City Wall may not be known throughout the world, but it is an interesting place well worth visiting.
A magnificent empire, China has come under attack by foreign invaders many times during its long history. Massive walls were built as a sort of primary defence. These walls can be found in the unlikeliest of places throughout the country. The ancient city of Xian boasts some of the oldest walls in China and despite their age, the historic fortifications are remarkably well preserved. Grand in scale, the awe inspiring structures encircle the historic part of the city, separating it from modern Xian. Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, an emperor from the Ming Dynasty, is credited with the construction of the wall during the fourteenth century.
The wall is completely intact and it is possible to do an entire lap around ancient Xian. In fact, tourists should consider renting a bicycle from one of the many rental shops nearby and taking a quick spin. The wall is the site of an annual marathon. Participants who wish to complete the marathon will have to do three laps around the wall, covering a distance of around forty one kilometres (the wall itself is only about fourteen kilometres in circumference). An impressive remnant from a time gone by, no trip to Xian can be considered complete without visiting this place.
Tourists visiting Xian need not worry about facilities as the city has great infrastructure. Xian accommodation is among the best in the country and one can find a good place to stay without too much difficulty. Those looking for an alternative to staying at a hotel can try serviced accommodation Xian. The Citadines Central Xi’an combines an excellent location with beautifully decorated rooms, creating a quiet and intimate ambiance.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
