Introduction
The Old Summer Palace or Yuanmingyuan, located in the northwest of Beijing, China, was once a majestic imperial complex of gardens, palaces, and pavilions. Built during the reign of Emperor Kangxi in the early 18th century, the palace witnessed the splendor of the Qing dynasty and the turbulent history of China.
History
Yuanmingyuan was expanded and renovated by several emperors, but it was during the reign of Emperor Qianlong that it reached its peak. The palace covered an area of 350 hectares and featured more than 200 scenic spots, including lakes, hills, rocks, gardens, temples, and buildings of various styles from China and abroad.
However, in 1860, during the Second Opium War, the British and French troops invaded Beijing and looted and burned down the palace, causing immense damage to the Chinese culture and pride. The palace suffered further destruction during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, and the remaining ruins were eventually turned into a public park.
Features
Gardens and Waterworks
The Old Summer Palace was renowned for its exquisite garden design, which integrated the natural landscape, the artificial elements, and the artistic imagination. There were several waterworks that created an enchanting atmosphere, such as the Mirror Lake, the Western-style Fountain, and the Bronze Turtles with Water Jets.
Palaces and Pavilions
The palace complex of Yuanmingyuan consisted of three main parts: the Garden Area, the Western-style and Southern-style Palaces, and the Wanchun Pavilion. The palaces and pavilions were built with precious materials and decorated with delicate craftsmanship, showcasing the imperial power and aesthetics.
Treasures and Collections
The Old Summer Palace was also a treasure house of Chinese cultural relics and rare items from around the world. The imperial collections included books, paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, bronze, gold, silver, and other precious objects of historical, artistic, and scientific value, reflecting the broad horizon and refined taste of the Qing emperors.
Legacy
Although the Old Summer Palace was invaded and destroyed by foreign forces, and its relics were scattered or lost, the spirit and essence of the palace still survive in the hearts and minds of the Chinese people. The ruins and remnants of the palace reflect the glory and the tragedy of the past, and remind the present and future generations of the need to cherish and protect their heritage and identity.
Conclusion
The Old Summer Palace is not only a historical and cultural heritage of China, but also a world heritage of humanity. It represents the fusion of nature and civilization, the dialogue between cultures and nations, and the pursuit of beauty and harmony. As the famous Chinese saying goes, “The Old Summer Palace is the epitome of the world”, which implies the universal significance and value of this magnificent palace.
References
- Chen, C. (2010). Yuanmingyuan: A Lost Paradise of the Emperors. Beijing: China Intercontinental Press.
- Zheng, X. (2014). The Yuanmingyuan: A Chinese Garden in a Global Context. London: Routledge.
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Yuanmingyuan
- https://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/beijing/yuanmingyuan.htm
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