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Copyright © 2024 CGTN. 京ICP备20000184号
Disinformation report hotline: 010-85061466
The Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, situated along the Beijing Central Axis, May 31, 2024. /CFP
Jingshan Park in Beijing, capital of China, May 26, 2024. /CFP
The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, capital of China, March 16, 2024. /CFP
The Temple of Agriculture, also known as Xiannongtan, which translates to the Altar of the God of Agriculture, Beijing, capital of China, May 22, 2024. /CFP
The Central Axis of Beijing, China. /CFP
Zhengyang Gate, or Qianmen Gate in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2024. /CFP
Yongding Gate in Beijing, capital of China, November 20, 2023. /CFP
The Beijing Central Axis, known as Zhongzhouxian, was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List on Saturday. During the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, India, UNESCO announced the inclusion of the Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital into its world heritage list.
As the most complete traditional capital central axis architectural complex in China, this historic 7.8-kilometer stretch was established during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). It extends from Yongding Gate in the south to the Drum Tower and Bell Tower in the north, encompassing many of Beijing's most significant ancient structures. This axis embodies the ideal capital order that has influenced China's urban planning for over 2,000 years.
Key landmarks such as gates, palaces, temples, squares and gardens line this axis, forming an essential part of Beijing's cultural and historical landscape. These sites include former imperial palaces and gardens, sacrificial structures, and ceremonial and public buildings, creating a balanced and symmetrical landscape that exemplifies the mature stage of traditional Chinese capital development.
A notable aspect of the Central Axis is the No. 8 Line of Beijing's metro network, which passes through several key cultural sites. Starting at Olympic Park station at the northern extension of the axis, the line travels southward, providing convenient access to prominent locations such as the commercial streets of Shichahai and Qianmen, as well as cultural landmarks like the Drum Tower, Jingshan Park, the Palace Museum, the Temple of Heaven and the Temple of Agriculture.
These landmarks have witnessed centuries of the city's folk activities and stand as a testament to its rich heritage, seamlessly blending the architectural and cultural achievements of the past with the vibrant life of the city today.
The No. 8 Line of Beijing's metro network threads the important cultural sites along the Central Axis, Beijing, China, February 4, 2024. /CFP
Effort culminates in UNESCO recognition for Central Axis
While individual attractions along the axis have previously been recognized by UNESCO, the comprehensive inclusion of the entire Central Axis indicates a noteworthy development.
The journey towards this recognition began in 2011, driven by Beijing's commitment to the comprehensive protection and restoration of the old city's appearance. Since then, over 100 cultural heritage restoration projects have been carried out along the axis, demonstrating the city's dedication to preserving its historical legacy.
In early 2023, Beijing submitted its nomination dossier to the UNESCO World Heritage Center, aiming for successful inscription in the 2024 session – 11 years ahead of the initial target date of 2035. This reflects the city's efforts to promote the cultural significance of the Central Axis on a global stage.
The inscription of the Beijing Central Axis as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores its historical and cultural significance, contributing to its protection and preservation for future generations. As a living historical corridor, it bridges the past and present, offering locals and visitors a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.