The Great Wall of China: An Unmissable Wonder of the World

Introduction

The Great Wall of China is one of the most impressive constructions of ancient times. As a matter of fact, it is one of the 7 Wonders of the World, which makes it a must-see destination for most people who visit China or plan to do so. In this article, we will go through some interesting facts about this amazing piece of architecture, its history and the reasons why it has become one of the most renowned landmarks in the world.

History

The construction of the Great Wall of China began over 2,000 years ago. During the Warring States period (475-221 BCE), China was divided into several smaller states that were constantly fighting each other. Therefore, the construction of the wall was originally intended to be a defense system against invaders and intruders.

Over time, several Chinese dynasties made their own contributions to the wall by expanding and reconstructing it, including the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE), which is responsible for most of the wall that still exists today. During this period, the wall was extended to almost 13,170 miles, making it the longest wall in the world.

Structure and Design

The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications made of brick, stone, tamped earth, and other materials. The design and structure of the wall varied depending on the region where it was built. In the northern regions, where there were wide-open spaces and flat terrains, the wall was built to be higher and wider, with watchtowers and fortresses. In the mountainous regions of the south, the wall was built with steep slopes and narrower paths.

Despite the variations in design, the wall was engineered to be effective as a defense system, with the intention of slowing down invading forces and making them vulnerable to attacks.

Importance

The Great Wall of China is not only an impressive construction but also an important cultural symbol for China’s history and national identity. It has stood the test of time and bears witness to the country’s struggles and victories. It is also a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year, who come to marvel at its magnificence and learn about its history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Great Wall of China is an extraordinary piece of architecture and a remarkable example of human engineering that has been recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of the World. It represents China’s rich history, culture, and identity, and it is an important source of national pride. If you ever plan to visit China, make sure to include the Great Wall on your list of must-see destinations.

Quick Facts

• The Great Wall of China is the longest wall in the world, stretching for almost 13,170 miles.
• It is estimated that over a million workers died during the construction of the wall.
• The Great Wall of China is not visible from space with the naked eye.