The Great Wall of China stands as one of the most iconic structures in human history, stretching across China’s northern borders and winding through mountains, deserts, and plains. Its sheer length, immense historical significance, and monumental architecture have fascinated people worldwide for centuries. In this article, we will explore the length of the Great Wall, its history, construction process, dimensions, current purpose, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this incredible structure.
A Brief History of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China, known in Chinese as “Wanli Changcheng” (万里长城), meaning “The Wall of 10,000 Li,” was initially conceived as a series of smaller walls built by various Chinese states to defend against northern invaders. The most famous sections of the wall were constructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), but the origins of the wall date back as early as the 7th century BCE.
During the Warring States Period (475–221 BCE), several states built defensive walls to protect their territories from nomadic tribes such as the Xiongnu. After China was unified under the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE) by Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the existing walls were connected, marking the first version of what would later become the Great Wall of China. Over centuries, subsequent dynasties, particularly the Han, Sui, and Ming, contributed to the expansion and fortification of the wall.
Purpose of the Wall
The original purpose of the Great Wall was to defend China from invasions and raids by various nomadic tribes, particularly the Mongols and the Xiongnu. The wall was built to keep these invaders at bay and to regulate trade and immigration along the Silk Road. In addition to its defensive role, the Great Wall also functioned as a communication and transportation route for military supplies, troops, and messages.
The Length, Height, and Thickness of the Great Wall
How Long Is the Great Wall of China?
The length of the Great Wall is one of the most frequently asked questions. The wall’s length has varied over time due to construction, destruction, and reconstruction. According to a comprehensive survey conducted by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage in 2012, the official length of the Great Wall of China is 21,196 kilometers (13,171 miles). This includes sections of both the main wall and its branches that extend to various defensive outposts, trenches, and natural barriers like mountains and rivers that were used to supplement the wall’s defense.
Height of the Wall
The height of the Great Wall also varies depending on the section you visit. On average, the wall is about 6 to 7 meters (20 to 23 feet) tall, though it reaches heights of up to 14 meters (46 feet) in some areas, especially in more mountainous or strategic locations. The height was designed to provide a significant defense advantage, making it difficult for invaders to scale.
Thickness of the Wall
The wall’s thickness also varies, but it is typically around 4.5 to 9 meters (15 to 30 feet) thick at its base. The wall tapers slightly as it rises, providing additional strength and stability. This formidable thickness allowed the wall to resist attacks, withstand earthquakes, and support the weight of soldiers and equipment stationed on top.
Materials Used
The materials used to build the Great Wall depended on the resources available in each region. In the early sections, compacted earth, wood, and stone were commonly used. During the Ming Dynasty, brick, limestone, and granite became the primary materials due to their increased durability. The Ming sections of the wall are often the best-preserved today.
The Construction Process
Building the Great Wall was a massive and complex project that spanned centuries. It required the labor of hundreds of thousands of workers, including soldiers, peasants, and prisoners. The process involved several stages:
- Design and Planning: Before construction began, military engineers would study the landscape to determine the best defensive routes. The wall was strategically designed to follow natural features like mountain ridges and river valleys, creating a formidable barrier that was difficult for invaders to breach.
- Foundation and Structure: Workers first laid a solid foundation, often using large stones, to ensure the wall’s stability. Depending on the terrain, the structure of the wall varied. In mountainous regions, stone walls were more common, while in the plains and deserts, earth and tamped soil were often used.
- Building Watchtowers and Fortresses: In addition to the wall itself, thousands of watchtowers and fortresses were built along the wall at regular intervals. These towers served as lookout points and communication posts where soldiers could light fires or send smoke signals to warn of incoming threats. The towers also served as strongholds and storage areas for supplies.
- Wall Construction: Bricks and stones were used to create the outer layers of the wall, while the inner portion was often filled with compacted earth, gravel, or other readily available materials. The top of the wall was wide enough to allow soldiers and horses to patrol.
The laborers worked in harsh conditions, and the construction of the wall claimed many lives. In fact, it is often said that the Great Wall is “the longest graveyard” because so many workers died during its construction.
What Is the Great Wall’s Purpose Today?
Today, the Great Wall of China serves a completely different purpose than it did in ancient times. While it no longer functions as a military defense, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world and a symbol of China’s rich history and culture. Every year, millions of visitors from around the globe come to admire its architecture, enjoy the scenic landscapes it traverses, and learn about the historical significance of this colossal structure.
Many sections of the wall, particularly those near Beijing such as Badaling and Mutianyu, have been restored and are accessible to tourists. These well-preserved sections offer visitors a chance to walk along the same path where soldiers once patrolled centuries ago. Other parts of the wall, particularly those in more remote areas, remain in ruins, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Great Wall
How long does it take to walk the Great Wall of China?
It is impossible to walk the entire length of the wall in one trip due to its sheer size and the fact that many sections are in ruins. However, tourists can walk portions of the restored wall, and a typical visit might last 2 to 4 hours, covering several kilometers.
Can you see the Great Wall of China from space?
A common myth is that the Great Wall is visible from space. While it is an enormous structure, the wall is not easily visible to the naked eye from space. Astronauts have confirmed that it blends into the surrounding landscape and is challenging to spot without special equipment.
What are the best sections to visit?
The most popular and accessible sections of the wall include Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling, which are near Beijing. These sections have been restored and offer stunning views, making them ideal for first-time visitors.
Is the Great Wall continuous?
No, the Great Wall is not a single continuous wall. It is made up of several walls built by different dynasties over time, with gaps in between. These walls were connected by natural defenses like mountains and rivers.
Why is the Great Wall of China a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
In 1987, the Great Wall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical, cultural, and architectural significance. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of ancient Chinese civilizations.
Conclusion
The Great Wall of China is not just a physical structure but a symbol of China’s rich history, cultural heritage, and engineering prowess. Spanning over 21,000 kilometers, the wall served as a powerful defense against invaders and played a key role in shaping the history of the region. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors each year and continuing to fascinate people with its sheer scale, history, and beauty. Whether you’re interested in its construction, its role in history, or simply its vast length, the Great Wall remains one of humanity’s most remarkable achievements.