Xi’an
This is to respond to Frizztext the Story Challenge: Letter “X”.
Xi’an (Chang’an) is one of the four ancient capitals (other three are Rome, Athens, and Cairo) in the world history. “West Rome, East Chang’an ” is the portrayal of ancient historical status in the world.
The City:
- The city is famous for the Terracotta Army –one of the Eight Wonders of the world.
- It is recognized by UNESCO as one of the historic cities.
- Xi’an is the cradle of Chinese civilization.
- It has over 6,000 years of history of the founding of the city.
- It has the longest history 1,200 years as a capital of 13 dynasties including the Qin Dynasty–the first emperor of Qin ordered to link all the walls in different regions into the Great Wall.
- Between 206 BC and 9 AD, Xi’an was the world economic and cultural exchange center when the “Silk Road” was developed.
- It is located in the northwest part of China, approx. 679 miles west of Beijing.
The Fortifications of Xi’an:
- The first city wall was constructed in 194 BC, but the wall that we see today was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644).
- The fortifications of Xi’an is one of the oldest and best preserved city walls, 39-52 ft. (12-16 meters) in thickness at the base and 39 ft. (12 meters) in height, and 16 miles long.
- The City Wall has 18 gates, south has 7, north 6, west 2, and east 3.
- The top of this city wall was built to allow 8 to 10 horses marching in line.
Note: Qin Dynasty unified China (221-206 BC) at the time when Roman Republic was established.
I haven’t visited Xi’an, but have been fascinated with the ancient Chinese history. We plan to visit this great ancient city and other historical places in China next summer. 🙂 The above photos are from the Wikipedia Commons.
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