Unveiling the Secrets: 17 Facts About the Great Wall
Here's a breakdown of some essential knowledge about the Great Wall of China:
Fact Number Fact Description 1 The "Great Wall" isn't a single, continuous wall built at one time. It's a series of fortifications built over centuries by different dynasties. Construction began as early as the 7th century BC and continued until the 17th century AD. 2 The total length of all sections of the Great Wall is estimated to be over 21,196 kilometers (13,171 miles). This includes walls, trenches, and natural barriers like rivers and mountains. 3 The primary purpose of the Great Wall was defensive: to protect the Chinese Empire from invaders, particularly nomadic groups from the north, like the Xiongnu and later the Mongols. It also served to control trade and immigration. 4 Different sections of the Great Wall were built using various materials, depending on the available resources. These included earth, stone, brick, and wood. The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) predominantly used brick and stone, leading to the iconic image we have today. 5 The Great Wall is not visible from space with the naked eye. This is a common misconception. While it's a large structure, its color and width blend with the surrounding terrain, making it difficult to distinguish without aid. 6 Construction of the Great Wall was a massive undertaking, involving hundreds of thousands of soldiers, convicts, and commoners. Conditions were harsh, and many workers died during its construction, earning it the nickname "the longest cemetery in the world." 7 Watchtowers were strategically built along the Great Wall to provide surveillance, signal warnings, and house soldiers. They were equipped with beacons, flags, and even cannons to communicate across long distances. 8 The Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding universal value and historical significance. This designation helps to ensure its preservation for future generations. 9 The most well-preserved and visited section of the Great Wall is the Badaling section, near Beijing. It was the first section to be opened to tourists and is easily accessible. 10 There are other less-visited sections of the Great Wall that offer a more authentic and less crowded experience. These include Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai. 11 The Great Wall has different names in Chinese. The most common is "Changcheng," which translates to "Long Wall." Another name is "Wanli Changcheng," meaning "Ten Thousand Li Long Wall" (a "li" is a traditional Chinese unit of measurement). 12 While the Great Wall was an impressive defensive structure, it wasn't impenetrable. Invaders, such as the Manchus, were eventually able to breach it, leading to the fall of the Ming Dynasty. 13 The Great Wall's architectural design incorporates principles of Feng Shui, aligning with the natural landscape to create a harmonious balance. 14 Legends and folklore are intertwined with the history of the Great Wall. One famous story is that of Meng Jiangnu, whose husband died during construction, and her tears caused a section of the wall to collapse. 15 Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the Great Wall from erosion, vandalism, and the effects of tourism. Various organizations and government agencies are involved in these efforts. 16 The Great Wall continues to be a source of national pride for the Chinese people, representing their resilience, strength, and cultural heritage. 17 You can hike, bike, or even take a toboggan ride on certain sections of the Great Wall. Be sure to research the specific section you plan to visit and check for any restrictions or regulations.
