Great Wall of China
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The Great Wall of China is one of the longest structures ever built, stretching over 21,000 kilometers across northern China. It was constructed over several centuries, with the earliest versions dating back to the 7th century BC by the Chu State. The wall was continuously expanded and fortified by successive dynasties, with the most well-known sections built during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). It served as a defensive barrier against invasions from nomadic tribes and a control point for trade and immigration. The Great Wall is not a single structure but a series of fortifications including watchtowers, barracks, and beacon towers. It was built using materials like stone, brick, and rammed earth, with sticky rice mortar used in many sections. The wall spans across 15 regions, from the Shanhai Pass in the east to the Jiayu Pass in the west. It is a testament to ancient Chinese engineering and a symbol of Chinese power and history, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
