Synopsis of the Great Wall of China   by A Ali 

One of the greatest wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China is the longest and the most symbolic man-made structures ever made. It is one of the gigantic building projects ever planned and carried out. Ever since it was built, it has become a travel icon of China attracting millions of visitors from all over the world every year.

In ancient times, the Great Wall of China was called ‘Wan-Li Qang-Qeng’ which means 10,000-Li Long Wall. This name referred to the wall's length (a Li is a unit of measurement and 10,000 Li = about 5,000 km). Over the centuries, more than a million people including peasants, soldiers and prisoners worked hard for this historical landmark.

The Great Wall of China stretches across the mountains of northern China, winding north and northwest of Beijing. It covers the large territory of China from the bank of the Yalu River and ends at the foot of snow-covered Qilianshan and Tianshan mountains. It is about 7.5 meters (25 feet) tall and its thickness varies from about 4.5 to 9 meters (15 to 30 feet). The watchtowers normally add about 4 meters (13 feet) to the height.

Badaling, Mutianya, Simatai and Shixiaguan are the four most popular sites of the Great Wall. Badaling and Mutianya are situated close to the capital city of Beijing. It was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Round the year, visitors gather here to take photographs and enjoy pleasant time with their friends and family. January and February are considered to be the dry season and there were only few tourists to share the Great Wall of China.
 
 

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