World Heritage #0438 – The Great Wall

Last modified 30.10.2022 | Published 16.03.1985China, North, Central and East Asia, World Heritage Sites

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The Great Wall is truly a magnificent sight. Stand on a section of the wall and watch how the fortifications roll up hills and down valleys, endlessly into the mist.

The UNESCO World Heritage List includes over a thousand properties with outstanding universal value. They are all part of the world’s cultural and natural heritage.

Official facts

  • Country: China
  • Date of Inscription: 1987
  • Category: Cultural site

UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre’s short description of site no. 438:

“In c. 220 B.C., under Qin Shi Huang, sections of earlier fortifications were joined together to form a united defence system against invasions from the north. Construction continued up to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), when the Great Wall became the world’s largest military structure. Its historic and strategic importance is matched only by its architectural significance.”

My visit

My first visit to the Great Wall was in 1985 when I visited the Badaling section north of Beijing. The second visit in 2011 to the Mutianyu section gave material for my video. Needless to say, the Great Wall is truly Great. Period.

Read more about my visit in 1985. and this one from 2011.

About this series.

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