Jiayuguan Fort
Gansu Sheng
Jiayuguan Fort, located in Gansu Province, China, is the first major fortress at the western end of the Ming dynasty Great Wall. Constructed around 1372, it served as a critical military defense point and a gateway on the ancient Silk Road. The trapezoid-shaped fort spans a perimeter of 733 meters with walls reaching 11 meters high, featuring two gates and turrets at each corner. It consists of three defensive lines: an inner fort, an outer fort, and a moat. Historically, it was the main passage for foreign merchants and envoys entering China from Central and West Asia. The fort is remarkably well-preserved, representing one of the most intact ancient military structures of the Great Wall. It also holds cultural significance as a symbol of exile, with many banished individuals forced to leave China through its gates. The surrounding landscape includes an oasis and the Hexi Corridor, emphasizing its strategic location. Jiayuguan's architecture and history make it a unique testament to Ming dynasty military engineering and Silk Road heritage.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Jiayuguan Fort is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the historical context and architectural details. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable due to the size of the fortress and surrounding areas.
Faits intéressants
- •Jiayuguan is known as the 'First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven' and is distinct from the 'First Pass Under Heaven' located at Shanhai Pass in the east.
- •A legend says the fort was constructed with exactly 100,000 bricks, with one brick left over placed loosely on a gate as a symbol of precision.
- •It was the main gateway for foreign merchants and envoys from Central and West Asia entering China during the Ming dynasty.
- •The pass has a nickname 'Gate of the Demons' due to its association with exiles who were forced to leave China through it, often never to return.
- •Ming dynasty traveler Mildred Cable described the area vividly, highlighting its natural beauty and the emotional weight of the exile gate.
Histoire
Jiayuguan Fort was built in the early Ming dynasty, around 1372, as a strategic military fortification at the western edge of China.
It was strengthened in response to threats from Timur's forces, although Timur died before invading China.
The fort marked the western terminus of the Ming Great Wall and was a key point on the Silk Road for trade and diplomatic missions.
Over centuries, it maintained its military importance and became a symbol of exile for those banished from China.
Despite regional conflicts and changes, Jiayuguan remains one of the most intact surviving passes of the Great Wall.
Guide du lieu
Inner Fort1372
The core defensive structure of Jiayuguan, featuring high walls and battlements designed to withstand sieges and attacks.
West Gate Building1372
The gate on the west side of the pass, notable for the inscription of 'Jiayuguan' on a tablet above it.
Turrets at Each Corner1372
Four turrets located on each corner of the trapezoid fortress, providing vantage points for surveillance and defense.
Moat and Outer Fort1372
Defensive features surrounding the inner fort, including a moat that enhanced the fortress's protection against invaders.
North Side Roads
Wide roads inside the two gates on the north side leading to the top of the pass, facilitating troop movement and logistics.