“Is that a drum I hear?” a child’s voice echoed through the square in front of the Drum Tower, or Gulou, as it’s known in Chinese. The Drum Tower has stood sentinel over Beijing for centuries. It’s more than just a tower. It’s a time capsule, a monument to a time when the rhythm of life was dictated not by ticking clocks, but by the resounding beat of drums. The Drum Tower, or Gulou, was originally built in 1272, during the Yuan Dynasty. It served as the city’s official timekeeper, a role it held through the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Imagine the scene: as the sun began its descent, the drummers would ascend the steep steps of the Drum Tower. The rhythmic pounding of the enormous drums would echo across the city, signaling the close of day. The Drum Tower, Gulou, isn’t just about the past. It’s also a vibrant part of Beijing’s present. Every day, skilled drummers perform, recreating the ancient rhythms that once regulated life in the city. The deep, resonant beats reverberate through the square, connecting visitors to the city’s rich history. Climb the 69 steps to the top of the Drum Tower, Gulou, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Beijing. From here, you can spot the iconic landmarks that dot the city’s skyline. You can also see the surrounding hutongs, traditional alleyways that offer a glimpse into old Beijing. The Drum Tower, Gulou, stands as a proud symbol of Beijing’s enduring spirit. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, a place where the echoes of history continue to resonate in the heart of a modern metropolis.
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