Thirteen

Author: Hu Hansheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-09-01
Features: The Ming Tombs, located about 50 kilometers south of Beijing, are the mausoleums of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty after they moved the capital to Beijing. The area of the Ming Tombs covers over 80 square kilometers. The majestic Yan Mountains stretch from the northwest, forming a natural barrier around the tomb area. Within the mountain range lies a small basin eroded by floods, where streams converge in the central plain and then flow eastward. Amidst lush green trees and bright sunshine, rows of mausoleum buildings with red walls and yellow tiles, with their eaves soaring and glistening in gold and jade, are nestled on the foothills of the east, west, and north sides. Among them, Changling is located at the center of the north, while the other mausoleums are arranged to the left and right. The overall layout is solemn and harmonious, with clear distinctions between host and guests. Under the shade of green mountains and clear waters, the mausoleums appear particularly solemn and elegant.
Given the magnificent architecture of the Ming Tombs, its extremely high historical, scientific, and artistic value, as well as its strong integrity and authenticity, the Beijing People's Government listed it as a key cultural relic protection unit in Beijing in 1957. In 1961, the State Council designated it as a key cultural relic protection unit at the national level. In July 2003, after approval by the 27th session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO, the Ming Tombs was further recognized as part of the "Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties" as an extension project, becoming a component of world cultural heritage. As a part of the ancient culture of the Chinese nation, the Ming Tombs shines like a brilliant pearl in the north of the capital city of Beijing. Once a sacred and inviolable imperial tomb area, it has now become a world-renowned scenic spot with global significance.