Rich character
Michael is extremely enthusiastic about everything in Beijing, and a great source of information.
"The city wall of Beijing had an extremely rich character," he said.
The exterior of the wall had a different gradient and the wall bricks were trapezium-shaped, while the inner sidewall was slightly steeper than the outer, he explained.
Ramps allowing easy access for horses and an archers' tower on the city gate also contributed to the defenses.
The main function of the city wall was military defense, and it played a vital role in ensuring stable city life and promoting city development.
It boasted what was the most extensive defense system in Imperial China.
But Beijing's city wall was not only a fortification. It was also intended to be a symbol of a dominant center, of dignity and heavenliness, a political, economic and cultural center and the link uniting regional culture.
Michael said that of the entire ancient city wall in Beijing, the parts that can still be seen were built in the Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.
No trace remains of the city walls from very early times.
"Beijing's city wall is a masterpiece owing to its grand verve and spirit. It is not only the brick structure for defense, but also a great project embodying the beautiful physique of Beijing," said Michael.
"It is a symbol of the time when humanity made a step toward civilization," he added.
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