World Cultural Heritage in Beijing -- Thirteen Tombs

Author: Hu Hansheng (Compiler)
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Features: The Ming Tombs, located about 50 kilometers south of Beijing, are the mausoleums of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty after they moved their 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 carved by floodwaters, where streams converge in the central plain and flow eastward in a winding path. 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 Tomb is located in the center of the north, while the other tombs are arranged to its left and right. The overall layout is solemn and harmonious, with clear distinctions between host and guests, appearing particularly solemn and elegant under the backdrop of green mountains and clear waters.
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 declared it a key cultural heritage protection unit of Beijing in 1957. In 1961, the State Council designated it as a key national cultural heritage protection unit. In July 2003, after approval by the 27th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, the Ming Tombs was added as an extension project of the "Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties" and became part of the World Heritage. As a part of the ancient culture of the Chinese nation, the Ming Tombs shines like a brilliant pearl embedded in the northern part of the capital city. Once a sacred and inviolable imperial tomb area, it has now become a world-renowned scenic spot with global significance.