The Great Wall of China is an iconic landmark, not just in China, but also around the world. It is a man-made feat of engineering that spans over 13,000 miles across the country’s northern borders.
What is the Great Wall of China?
The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications made of brick, tamped earth, and other materials, generally built along an east-to-west line across the historical northern borders of China to protect the Chinese states and empires against the raids and invasions of the various nomadic groups of the Eurasian Steppe.
The history
The construction of the Great Wall began during the 7th century BC when the feudal lords of three major states in China began building walls to keep out invaders from the north. Throughout the following dynasties, the Great Wall continued to be built, fortified, and expanded, with the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) leaving behind the most well-known sections which tourists worldwide flock to today.
The Great Wall of China on Google Earth
Although the Great Wall of China can be seen from space, getting a glimpse up close was a significant challenge until Google’s mapping technology arrived.
Google Earth allows us to explore anywhere around the world from the comfort of our homes or offices, and the Great Wall is no exception. With clear satellite images, one can now zoom in and see the structure of the wall more closely, including the watchtowers, strategic forts, and gates, among other key features.
Exploring the Great Wall virtually
Using the Google Earth program, you can embark on a “virtual” tour of the Great Wall of China. You can move through time and space to explore how the wall was built and how it has changed throughout history.
You can also see the Great Wall’s different sections, including sections that are less visited by tourists. These less crowded sections are a great option for realizing the Great Wall’s beauty without the crowds.
Conclusion
The Great Wall of China is a fascinating architectural wonder that has withstood the test of time. Thanks to Google Earth, anyone can now explore this incredible structure and its history without leaving their house.
So if you’re interested in the Great Wall of China and its history, dive into Google Earth and discover this ancient wonder for yourself.
- Fortified wall over 13,000 miles created to protect China’s northern borders
- Construction started 7th century BC
- Google Earth provides virtual tour of wall, including less crowded areas
- An architectural wonder that has stood the test of time