Can you imagine a waterway so grand it connects five major river systems? Here at the Grand Canal in Beijing, we stand at the northern terminus of this extraordinary feat of engineering. The Grand Canal, also known as the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, stretches an incredible 1,797 kilometers. Its history spans over 2,500 years. It began in 486 BC. In 2014, the Grand Canal was recognized for its historical significance. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Grand Canal isn’t just one continuous ditch. It’s divided into three main sections. These are the Suitang Grand Canal, the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, and the Zhedong Canal. The section we are interested in, the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, starts in Hangzhou and ends right here in Beijing. Think about the countless boats that have traveled these waters. They carried goods, people, and ideas. The Grand Canal played a pivotal role in China’s economic and cultural exchange. It connected the north and south. Here in Beijing, we have two of the Grand Canal’s 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China. These are the Chengqing Upper Lock Gate and the Chengqing Middle Lock Gate. The Chengqing Upper Lock Gate is located west of Wanning Bridge. It regulated the water level of the Tonghui River. This made it easier for ships to navigate in and out of Shichahai. The Chengqing Middle Lock Gate is near Ping’an Street. It once served as a passage for boats heading towards the terminal dock at Shichahai. Now, only a relic remains. The Grand Canal has been a lifeline for Beijing. It has evolved and changed over centuries. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. This location right here at the Grand Canal provides a window into Beijing’s rich history.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to