Recently, China officially launched a 144-hour visa-free transit policy, simplifying the process for travelers worldwide who wish to explore the country. This initiative has led to an influx of international tourists visiting the Great Wall, renowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Great Wall has transformed into a lively hub for visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Have you ever wondered about the true significance of the Great Wall? Interestingly, the first email sent from China in 1987 referenced the Great Wall, stating, “Across the Great Wall, we can reach every corner of the world.” This was a pivotal moment, marking the Western world’s first glimpse into China’s voice through the internet. That same year, the Great Wall earned its place on the World Heritage List, becoming one of the country’s first recognized cultural heritage sites.
In May 2024, President Xi Jinping emphasized the Great Wall’s importance as a symbol of the Chinese nation and a representation of Chinese civilization in a letter directed at the community living near the Badaling section. He underscored that the Wall embodies the resilient spirit of the Chinese people and highlighted the shared duty to protect and preserve this historical and cultural gem.
Often referred to as the “10,000-Li Great Wall,” this ancient military defense structure has played vital roles in maintaining border stability, fostering agricultural development, and facilitating trade. The terminology associated with the Great Wall has evolved through the ages, having been called “liecheng” in the Western Zhou period, “fangcheng” in the state of Chu, and later, terms such as “qian” during the Warring States period and “sai” in the Han and Tang dynasties until the modern designation “Great Wall” became established.
Historically, major reconstruction efforts took place during the Qin, Han, and Ming dynasties. Interestingly, these restorations were spaced 88 years apart between the Qin and Han periods and a remarkable 1,575 years from the Han to the Ming. While it’s widely stated that the Great Wall stretches “10,000 Li,” research suggests that the actual length may exceed that, with estimates of over 100,000 Li when considering all dynastic constructions. However, the most well-preserved sections we observe today largely originate from the Ming era.
As of 2016, the National Cultural Heritage Administration reported that the total length of all remnants of the Great Wall is approximately 21,196.18 kilometers, with around 8,851.8 kilometers dating back to the Ming period. The Great Wall’s resources are distributed across 404 counties in 15 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in China.
Beyond being a symbol of China’s rich historical tapestry, the Great Wall also garners global attention. Numerous world leaders have toured the Badaling section, often sharing their awe-inspiring experiences. The first foreign leader to visit the Great Wall was former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1954, alongside Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai.
In 1984, U.S. President Ronald Reagan and his wife experienced the Great Wall firsthand, later reflecting on their overwhelming visit: “Although I had seen it in photos and films, witnessing it in person was still incredibly impressive. Standing there, watching the wall disappear into the mountains, I felt something I can’t even express. China is like this Great Wall—great and profound.”
More recently, in 2023, Chilean President Gabriel Boric, a long-time admirer of the Great Wall, made it a priority to visit upon his arrival in Beijing. He expressed his admiration for its magnificence in the guest book, stating he was honored to represent the Chilean people in acknowledging its significance as a symbol of peace and a connection between different cultures and nature.
Ultimately, the Great Wall represents a symbol of peace, with each brick and stone reflecting the aspirations of the Chinese populace for harmony. Experts note that, at its core, the Wall’s construction served as a defensive measure, akin to the traditional Chinese value of seeking common ground while respecting differences. This ethos of cultural inclusivity and mutual development has been woven into the very essence of the Chinese nation for centuries.
In times of peace, the cultural importance of the Great Wall will continue to embody the spirit of the Chinese people, fostering national pride and inspiring the nation to move forward.
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