China Applies for World Heritage Status for TombsNanjing was China's capital during the Ming Dynasty, more than 600 years ago. Among its well-preserved tomb complexes of former emperors is the Xiao tomb, where the founder of the Ming Dynasty and his wife are buried. China plans to apply for World Culture Heritage status for this site.The structure and style of the Xiao tomb from the Ming dynasty influenced the appearance of emperors' tombs for the next 500 years. The tomb complex involved more than 30 structures, the biggest called the Xiang Palace. Although now destroyed, experts judge from the foundations that the palace was supported by 56 stone pillars. The emperor and his wife's tomb is laid behind an arched tunnel. Drainage ditches in the tomb helped the area remain dry during the past 600 years. The ditches contain glazed tiles, which have provided valuable materials for the study of Ming architecture. The China Relics Protection Administration has already approved the Xiao Tomb's application to become a World Culture Heritage site. The final result will be known in 2003. |
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