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H I S TO R Y & A R C H I T E C T U R E I S S U E 2 2
Origin
The Great Wall of China has ancient origins,
with its earliest fortifications dating back to the
Warring States Period (around 220 BC). During
this time, various states built defensive walls to
protect their territories. However, it was
Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first ruler of a
united China under the Qin dynasty, who first
started connecting these existing walls into a
single system. His vision was to safeguard
China against incursions by nomadic tribes
from Inner Asia.
Construction
Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of
China is not visible from space. Despite its
massive scale, it blends into the natural
landscape, making it challenging to distinguish
when viewed from above. Over 100 million
tonnes of bricks, stone, and soil were
transported and assembled by millions of
soldiers, peasants, prisoners, and animals using
basic rope, wood, and basket systems on
remote terrain. The wall's base height varied
between 5 and 15 meters, and strategically
positioned guard towers enhanced its
defensive capabilities. Notably, the Badaling
section, located north of Beijing and restored
during the Ming Dynasty, remains one of the
best-preserved segments of this iconic
structure.
Legacy
Over the centuries, the Great Wall's military
significance gradually diminished. Now, it
stands as a powerful symbol of Chinese
identity - a testament to resilience and
determination. Ancient stones echo tales of
emperors, soldiers, and trade routes. Visitors
explore its architectural marvels, admiring the
rugged terrain, watchtowers, and sweeping
vistas, reflecting on the generations that toiled
to build and maintain this monumental
structure.
Clockwise from
above: Great Wall
of China; couple
visiting Great Wall
of China.
