Has anyone ever considered the weight of history a single arch can bear? Right here, before us, stands the Defend Peace Stone Archway, or 平安二号桥 as it’s known locally. It’s more than just an elegant structure. It’s a silent witness to a century of turmoil, a tangible link to a pivotal moment in Beijing’s relationship with the world. This archway, nestled within the tranquil confines of Zhongshan Park, has borne witness to national honor and disgrace, its very stones echoing with the whispers of the past. Originally known as the “Ketteler Arch,” it was erected in 1900 as an act of appeasement to the Eight-Nation Alliance following the unfortunate “Ketteler Incident.” The killing of the German Minister, Baron von Ketteler, by an Imperial Guard during an attempted inspection sparked an international crisis, ultimately leading to the invasion of Beijing. Constructed of gleaming white marble, the arch served as a stark reminder of China’s vulnerability at the turn of the 20th century. Following Germany’s defeat in World War I, the arch was not demolished. It was moved to Central Park, now Zhongshan Park, and rechristened the “Allied Justice Triumphal Arch.” The inscription changed to “Justice Triumphs,” proclaiming a shift in the global power dynamic. Yet another transformation awaited this resilient structure. It was renamed the “Defend Peace Arch,” a name imbued with hope for a more peaceful future. As you gaze upon the arch today, with its four pillars and three stories topped by a blue glazed tile roof, consider its journey. It is a journey from apology to triumph, from turmoil to hope. The calligraphy of the renowned poet Guo Moruo boldly proclaims “Defend Peace,” a message that resonates across the generations. This archway in Zhongshan Park stands as a testament to Beijing’s resilience and its enduring pursuit of peace. It is a quiet reminder of the complexities of history and the enduring power of symbolism.
平峪2号桥
Discover cities like never before.
Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.
After discovering the story of 平峪2号桥 in Beijing, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Beijing while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way.
Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Beijing. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Beijing directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful.
Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Beijing. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive.
Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Beijing. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Beijing with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.
More Places in Beijing
St. Peter’s Basilica
“Have you seen the cameras?” That’s what I thought the first time I saw the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception,
Jianwai Subdistrict
Thirty thousand souls. That’s how many people call Jianwai Subdistrict home. Jianwai Subdistrict sits nestled on the western side of