The Beijing Central Axis, a 7.8-kilometer spatial layout of the city that has been inscribed on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), highlights China's successful approach to preserving cultural heritage while fostering sustainable development.
The UNESCO on Saturday announced the inclusion of the Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital, into its world heritage list.
The north-south axis, established in the 13th century and fully formed in the 16th century, represents the best-preserved example of traditional central axis architecture in China, stretching from Yongding Gate in the south to the Bell and Drum Towers in the north.
The heritage area of the Beijing Central Axis covers 589 hectares, with a buffer zone of 4,542 hectares. Its location, layout, urban form, and design reflect the ancient Chinese tradition of urban planning, serving as an important emblem that highlights the distinctive characteristics of Chinese civilization.
At the north end of the axis, the Wanning Bridge, which dates back to over 700 years ago, has retained its transportation function since the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). The intricate patterns on the bridge body are clearly visible, with the four town water beasts standing proudly against the backdrop of the ancient bridge and the flowing water.
"In fact, what we do more is to purify the surrounding environment of Wanning Bridge by subtraction, so that the Wanning Bridge can be better presented in the public space of the city in a way that is closer to the historical landscape," said Ye Nan, director of the Historical and Cultural City Planning Institute of the Beijing Municipal Institute of City Planning and Design.
As the oldest bridge situated on the Beijing Central Axis, the Wanning Bridge is located on the Yu River section of the Grand Canal and has played a significant role in north-south transportation since its construction in the Yuan Dynasty.
The bridge has been restored to its original style after the removal of water pipes and telecommunication cables that were once attached to its side.
At the southern end of the axis, the sacred warehouse in the Temple of Ancient Agriculture opened to the public in April this year, unveiling the "first warehouse under heaven" for the first time in over 200 years.
The Temple of Agriculture, or Xiannong Altar, originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is an ancient complex where former emperors worshiped Shennong (Celestial Farmer) during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It boasts a history spanning nearly 600 years.
Following renovation and the removal of modern structures, the plowing field area has been restored to its original appearance, allowing visitors to experience spring sowing and autumn harvest firsthand. Many cultural relics and historical sites, such as the Shencang and Qingcheng Palace, have been opened to the public.
"Our ancient ancestors were so wise. You can see that the floor of this granary is made of wooden boards, which helps prevent moisture and stop the grains from molding. And the roof has a skylight. There's a gap in the sluice board, so the wind comes up through here, passing through the skylight in a natural circulation. This not only prevents moisture, but also deters pests. They used a type of coating called 'realgar-jade painting' which has insect-repelling properties," said Xue Jian, director of Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum.
The inclusion of the Beijing Central Axis on the UNESCO World Heritage List signifies the international recognition for Beijing's cultural heritage protection and sustainable development efforts.
Beijing, with a history of over 3,000 years, has served as the Chinese capital for 870 years, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage.
So far, China has a total of 59 World Heritage Sites
Beijing's Central Axis sets model for cultural heritage preservation, urban development
