Beyond the ancient Guang’anmen gate lies a world of stories. This is the Guanganmenwai Subdistrict. It sits nestled in the southwest corner of Beijing’s Xicheng District. Guanganmenwai Subdistrict derives its name from its location just outside the Guang’anmen, which translates to “Gate of Expansive Peace”, and the old Beijing city wall. Guanganmenwai Subdistrict is a relatively young administrative region. Yet its history stretches back centuries, interwoven with the rise and fall of dynasties. During the Liao dynasty, this area was a part of the Southern Capital. Under the Jin, it became part of Zhongdu. The Yuan dynasty saw it incorporated into the suburbs of Dadu. It wasn’t until the Ming dynasty that it took shape as the Guangningmen Borough of Wanping County. Guanganmenwai Subdistrict has witnessed significant administrative changes throughout the 20th century. In 1949, the Guang’anmen Guanxiang Street Government was established. The subdistrict shifted between districts. It became a commune in 1960. Then it was designated a subdistrict again in 1978. Today, Guanganmenwai Subdistrict is a vibrant community. It encompasses 38 smaller communities within its boundaries. In 2020, almost 200,000 people called this place home. From its historical ties to ancient capitals to its modern-day bustling neighborhoods, Guanganmenwai Subdistrict offers a glimpse into the ever-evolving tapestry of Beijing.
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