37 Facts About The Great Wall Of China

The Great Wall's Origins

The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic structures in the world. Its history is rich and fascinating, spanning centuries and dynasties. Let's dive into some captivating facts about this monumental feat of engineering.

1. Construction of the Great Wall began in the 7th century BC during the Warring States period.
2. The wall was initially built by various states to protect against invasions from nomadic tribes.
3. Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, unified these walls around 221 BC.
4. The primary purpose of the wall was to protect the Chinese states and empires from raids and invasions.
5. The wall also served as a means of border control, allowing the imposition of duties on goods transported along the Silk Road.

The Structure and Design

The Great Wall is not just a single wall but a series of walls and fortifications. Its design and structure are as varied as its history.

6. The wall stretches over 13,000 miles (21,196 kilometers) across northern China.
7. It is made from various materials, including earth, wood, bricks, and stone.
8. Some sections of the wall are as high as 30 feet (9 meters) and as wide as 16 feet (5 meters).
9. Watchtowers were built at regular intervals along the wall to serve as lookout points and signal stations.
10. The wall also includes barracks, garrison stations, and signaling capabilities through smoke or fire.

The Labor Force

Building the Great Wall was no small feat. It required a massive labor force and immense resources.

11. Millions of laborers, including soldiers, peasants, and prisoners, worked on the wall.
12. Many laborers died during construction due to harsh conditions and heavy labor.
13. It is estimated that over one million people died building the wall.
14. The wall is sometimes referred to as the "longest cemetery on Earth" because of the high death toll.
15. Laborers were often buried within the wall itself to save time and resources.

The Wall's Role in History

The Great Wall has played a significant role in Chinese history, influencing military strategy, culture, and even folklore.

16. The wall was crucial in defending against the Mongol invasions during the Yuan Dynasty.
17. It also played a role in the Ming Dynasty's defense strategy against the Manchu invasions.
18. The wall was not always successful in keeping invaders out; the Mongols and Manchus both managed to breach it.
19. The wall has become a symbol of Chinese strength and perseverance.
20. It is often associated with the legend of Meng Jiangnu, whose tears supposedly caused a section of the wall to collapse.

Modern-Day Significance

Today, the Great Wall of China remains a symbol of Chinese culture and history. It attracts millions of tourists each year and continues to inspire awe.

21. The Great Wall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
22. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in China, drawing millions of visitors annually.
23. Some sections of the wall have been restored and are open to tourists, while others remain in ruins.
24. The wall has been featured in numerous films, books, and documentaries.
25. It is often mistakenly believed to be visible from space with the naked eye, but this is a myth.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond its historical and cultural significance, the Great Wall has many intriguing aspects that might surprise you.

26. The wall is not a continuous line; it consists of many different sections built by various dynasties.
27. Some parts of the wall are submerged underwater due to the construction of reservoirs.
28. The wall has been subject to natural erosion and human damage over the centuries.
29. Efforts are ongoing to preserve and restore the wall for future generations.
30. The wall has inspired numerous legends and myths, adding to its mystique.

Fun Facts

Let's end with some fun and quirky facts about the Great Wall of China that you might not know.

31. The Great Wall is sometimes called the "Long Wall" or "Ten Thousand Li Wall" in Chinese.
32. It is said that sticky rice was used as mortar in some sections of the wall.
33. The wall has its own museum, the Great Wall Museum, located in Badaling.
34. Some sections of the wall are so steep that they are almost vertical.
35. The wall has been a source of inspiration for artists, poets, and writers throughout history.
36. The Great Wall Marathon, an annual race, takes place on the wall and attracts runners from around the world.
37. Despite its age, the Great Wall continues to be a symbol of China's enduring legacy and cultural heritage.

The Great Wall's Legacy

The Great Wall of China stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Spanning over 13,000 miles, it’s not just a wall but a symbol of China's rich history. Built to protect against invasions, it also facilitated trade and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road. The wall's construction involved millions of workers, many of whom lost their lives, making it a monumental feat of engineering and sacrifice.

Today, the Great Wall attracts millions of tourists, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into ancient Chinese civilization. Despite natural erosion and human damage, efforts to preserve this wonder continue. The Great Wall remains a powerful reminder of what humanity can achieve. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, the Great Wall of China is a must-see marvel that continues to inspire awe and admiration worldwide.