Fascinating Facts: Information about the Great Wall of China You Never Knew
The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic man-made structures in the world, stretching over 13,000 miles and attracting millions of visitors each year. However, despite its worldwide recognition, there are still some fascinating facts and information about this wonder of the world that many people may not know. In this article, we will explore some of the lesser-known aspects of the Great Wall of China.
History of the Great Wall of China
Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China wasn’t built all at once. Instead, it was constructed over a period of almost 2,000 years, starting during the 7th century BC. The wall was built by several different Chinese dynasties to defend the country against invasions from northern tribes. One of the earliest sections of the wall was constructed during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC) using the labor of over a million soldiers and peasants. The wall continued to be expanded and strengthened during the following dynasties.
The Construction of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China was built using a variety of materials, including stone, brick, tamped earth, and wood. Initially, the wall was built using tamped earth, but as the construction progressed, different materials were used depending on the resources available in the area. The wall varied in height depending on the section, but the average height was around 26 feet. The Great Wall of China isn’t a continuous wall, but rather a series of short walls and fortifications that were built along strategic points. The wall also included watchtowers, barracks, and garrison stations.
Myths and Legends
One popular myth about the Great Wall of China is that it’s visible from space. However, this is not true. The wall is visible from low Earth orbit, but it’s difficult to discern with the naked eye. Another myth is that many workers died during the construction of the wall, and their bodies were buried inside the wall. However, this is also not true. While workers did die during the construction, their bodies were not buried inside the wall.
The Great Wall of China Today
Today, the Great Wall of China is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, the wall is also facing many challenges, including erosion, weathering, and vandalism. In recent years, the Chinese government has undertaken efforts to preserve and restore the wall, but much work remains to be done.
Conclusion
The Great Wall of China is an amazing feat of engineering and a testament to human perseverance and ingenuity. From its history and construction to the myths and legends that surround it, there’s no shortage of fascinating facts about this iconic structure. Whether you’re planning a trip to China or simply interested in history and architecture, the Great Wall of China is definitely worth exploring further.
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