The Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a majestic structure that has aroused admiration and admiration for centuries. Stretching for thousands of kilometers, it is an impressive proof of human ingenuity, perseverance and engineering craftsmanship. But what is really fascinating about this colossal building? Let’s take a closer look at this architectural masterpiece and discover its secrets.
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History of the Great Wall of China: From Legends to Facts
The construction of the Wall of China began in the third century BCE and continued intermittently for over two millennia. The original goal was to secure China’s borders against invasions by nomadic tribes from the north. The erection of such a monumental structure required enormous effort and commitment of millions of people.
Many legends have grown up around the construction of the Wall. One of them says that human bones were added to the mortar to strengthen the structure. Another tells of a dragon that marked the route of the Wall, and the workers followed in its footsteps. Although these stories add mystery to the building, the truth is equally fascinating.
Extraordinary scale and design
The Great Wall of China is actually a system of fortifications with a total length of over 21 thousand kilometers. It consists of walls, watchtowers, forts, and natural barriers such as mountains and rivers. Built of stone, brick and rammed earth, it winds its way through a varied terrain, from deserts to mountains.
The construction of the Wall is impressive. In some places, it reaches a height of 14 meters and a width of 8 meters, allowing troops and supplies to move. Watchtowers, located every few hundred meters, were used to observe the area and transmit alarm signals.
A symbol of China and a testimony to history
The Great Wall of China is not only a defensive structure, but also a symbol of China and its rich history. Over the centuries, it has witnessed fights, intrigues and dynastic changes. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.
Walking along the Wall, you can feel the spirit of past eras and admire extraordinary landscapes. Many sections have been restored, offering tourists the opportunity to learn about China’s history and culture.
What is so fascinating about the Great Wall of China?
The Great Wall of China is fascinating for many reasons:
- Monumental scale: It is one of the largest buildings erected by man, impressive in its length and grandeur.
- History and legends: The rich history and numerous legends surrounding the Wall stimulate the imagination and add to its mystery.
- Engineering craftsmanship: The construction of the Wall in antiquity was an extraordinary technical achievement, testifying to the advanced knowledge and skills of the builders of the time.
- Landscape values: The wall winds through the picturesque areas, offering breathtaking views.
- Symbol of China: The wall is a symbol of the strength, perseverance, and unity of the Chinese people, as well as an important part of their cultural heritage.
Visiting the Great Wall of China
If you want to experience the magic of the Great Wall of China, it is worth visiting one of its restored sections. The most popular are:
- Badaling: The most popular and crowded section, with easy access and well-developed tourist infrastructure.
- Mutianyu: A less crowded section, offering beautiful views and the possibility of a cable car ride.
- Jinshanling: A section for more demanding tourists, with a wild landscape and steep ascents.
- Simatai: An episode with the original elements of the fortifications preserved, offering an authentic experience.
Interesting facts about the Great Wall of China
- The Great Wall of China is not visible to the naked eye from space, contrary to popular belief.
- Different materials were used to build the Wall, depending on the region. In some places, glutinous rice was even used to strengthen the mortar.
- It is estimated that hundreds of thousands or even millions of people died during the construction of the Wall.
- The Great Wall of China has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries.
- In 2007, the Great Wall of China was recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Summary
The Great Wall of China is not only a building, but also a testimony to history, a symbol of China and a masterpiece of engineering. Its monumental scale, rich history and extraordinary landscape values attract millions of tourists from all over the world. A visit to the Wall of China is an unforgettable experience that allows you to travel back in time and feel the spirit of past eras.
