Yuanmingyuan research center opens in Beijing

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A center for researching Yuanmingyuan, an old imperial resort in Beijing, has been established at the China Agricultural University.

Yuanmingyuan, also known as the Old Summer Palace, was a resort for Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) emperors in the early 18th century until it was sacked and burnt by invading Anglo-French forces in 1860. Covering an area of about 350 hectares, it was considered to be the greatest example of ancient Chinese gardens.

Yuanmingyuan. /VCG Photo

The new institution will combine expertise from the Beijing university's college of water resources and civil engineering and college of horticulture. It will provide in-depth studies on the landscape gardening, vegetation and water ecology in Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park.

The project will help to improve the maintenance of the site's historical heritage and natural environment.

The two colleges will exchange personnel, share information, and employ a joint training program to improve the preservation of the Yuanmingyuan Ruins as a national-level monument and a place to promote patriotism.

Source(s): China Daily