Pingyao Ancient Town, located in Shanxi Province, is a cultural treasure and one of the best preserved ancient cities in China. Walking among the gray bricks and tiles of its alleys and buildings, you can feel the rich historical atmosphere.
The excellent state of preservation of this 2,700-year-old city is largely due to the efforts of the restoration craftsmen. By meticulously repairing every detail using traditional techniques, they ensure that the historical essence of Pingyao is passed on to future generations.
A window to the ancient past
Pingyao has a history dating back more than 2,700 years, during the Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770-256 BC). Its heyday as a commercial and financial center occurred during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 AD).
In 1997, the city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved urban structure and traditional Chinese architecture, reflecting the urban planning and building systems of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is surrounded by a rectangular defensive wall, which has a circumference of approximately 6 kilometers and reinforced with ancient towers and gates.
Within the walled city, numerous ancient buildings are preserved, including mansions of wealthy families, temples, government offices and traditional shops. These buildings are built with bricks and gray tiles characteristic of traditional Chinese architecture.
The place is known for its rich traditional culture, including ancient festivals, folk art and a strong tradition of crafts such as Joss paper production and embroidery. Wandering through the narrow alleys and courtyards, visitors can experience an atmosphere that seems frozen in time, with the opportunity to explore historic shops and sample local cuisine.
Source: https://reporteasia.com/cultura/educacion/2024/06/25/ciudad-antigua-pingyao-legado-historia-artesania/
