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Tombs and The Great Wall
In China, it is said that those who do not climb the Great Wall are not brave. This is maybe the reason why thousands of people come everyday to climb the irregular steps of this spectacular structure.
In the municipality of Beijing, there are four sections of the Great Wall: Badaling, Mutianyu, Juyongyuan and Simatai. The first is the easiest to visit, being located only 70 km away from Beijing. It only takes 40 minutes to reach it by car. Badaling is therefore the busiest area. But don't be afraid, there is enough space for everyone.
Those who prefer quiet places should go to Simatai. Located more than 3 hours away from the city, this part of the Wall is not fully restored, but the beautiful surroundings worth the trip. However, you better be well rested, climbing is more difficult here than at Badaling.
The 13 Ming tombs
The 13 Ming tombs are located over an area of 40 km2, at the bottom of the Celestial Longevity Hill, in Changping District. The most famous are probably Chang Ling and Ding Ling. The 13 Ming tombs are part of the UNESCO world heritage list. .
Amongst the 13 tombs, Chang Ling and Ding Ling are the main sites
Chang Ling: this group of mausoleums date from the reign of Emperor Cheng Zu. The Heng En Hall, also know as Xian Dian or Xiang Dian, is the main building of Chang Ling. It was the place where sacrifices to ancestors were held. The Hall of Eminent Ardor (1427) covers the central part of the mausoleum, and is built on an impressive large base of white marble.
Ding Ling : It is the necropolis of Emperor Shengzong Zhuxie, and is also know as Wanli. He began his reign at the age of ten, and lived until he was 58 years, one of the longest for the Ming dynasty. The Ding Ling arrangements are similar to Chang Ling. It was first discovered in 1956. This underground palace is divided in five large halla. Wanli and his two wives' coffins are located in the very last room.
Badaling in pictures
Changling Tomb in pictures
