The architecture of Xiangyu Ancient Castle is orderly and harmonious. /CGTN
The memorial archway at the entrance to Xiangyu Ancient Castle /CGTN
A view of Xiangyu Ancient Castle and its moat /CGTN
An alleyway in the Xiangyu Ancient Castle complex /CGTN
The architecture of Xiangyu Ancient Castle is orderly and harmonious. /CGTN
Xiangyu Ancient Castle features arched passages and corridors where soldiers could hide and defend the fortress. /CGTN
Xiangyu Ancient Castle features arched passages and corridors where soldiers could hide and defend the fortress. /CGTN
A visitor walks through a courtyard at Xiangyu Ancient Castle. /CGTN
A watchtower is seen at Xiangyu Ancient Castle. /CGTN
A cannon is seen at Xiangyu Ancient Castle. /CGTN
A five-story building that withstood an earthquake and falling rocks is seen at Xiangyu Ancient Castle. /CGTN
Elaborate carvings can be seen on a bed post at Xiangyu Ancient Castle. /CGTN
Originally built in 1614, Xiangyu Ancient Castle in Jincheng, Shanxi Province, served as both a military fortress and a residential area, protecting local residents from invasion and banditry during the turbulent times of the late Ming (1368-1644) and early Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Today, the castle complex is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its ancient residential buildings, sturdy stone walls, watchtowers and elaborate carvings.