Where is the start point of the Great Wall?
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E-mail CNTV, July 20, 2012
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Jiayuguan, literally "Excellent Valley Pass" is the first pass on the western end of the Great Wall. |
The pass was the most significant defensive system protecting the borders of the Chinese Empire against intrusions by nomadic groups. It was also an indispensable station at the ancient Silk Road. Jiayuguan also has a somewhat fearsome reputation though as the starting place of exile for many ex-officials ousted from court.
To find the exact spot where the Great Wall begins though, we must travel to the very the first beacon tower. That would be this earthen mound, built in 1539.
Feng Weili, tour guide, said, "The tower was originally 14 meters in length, width and height. But several hundred years of erosion and weathering has reduced it to this size. There used to be 39 beacon towers inside and outside of Jiayuguan Pass. All the towers were vital for ancient militaries. If enemy troops were spotted approaching, fire and smoke would be used to signal other towers like a sort of ancient alarm system."
Seven kilometers north of the Jiayuguan Pass lay another important scenic spot. The "Overhanging Great Wall". Built in 1539, the site got its name from the sheer drop along the slope.
In recent years, the local government has been working to promote tours to the site, recently even launching a TV competition to draw dozens of stations from China and abroad to focus their lenses on the remarkable sight. So soon, more people than ever may get a chance to see the site.
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