Ming Tombs

Located in Changping District, 30 kilometers north of Beijing, the tomb area covers an area of about 120 square kilometers. The tombs of the Ming Emperor Zhu Di and the subsequent 12 emperors were built here. Because of its solemn and orderly overall layout, it is called the "Thirteen Ming Tombs" and was listed as a World Heritage Site in 2003. At present, there are four scenic spots open to the public. Changling Tomb, the tomb of Zhu Di, the Emperor of Ming Dynasty, was built in 1409 and is one of the best preserved tombs of the Ming emperors. In particular, the Ling Si Hall, where the rituals are held, is a treasure of ancient architecture. It was made up of the precious golden-beam wood components. At present, there is an exhibition of the finest unearthed cultural relics from the Dingling Tomb in the hall. Dingling Tomb, the joint tomb of Zhu Yijun and his two empresses, is the first imperial tomb in China to be excavated according to the archaeological plan. The architecture of the underground palace of Dingling Tomb is deep and mysterious. A total of about 3,000 pieces of precious cultural relics, such as the emperor's and empress' crowns and gold and silver vessels, have been unearthed, which are rare physical materials for the study of the history of the Ming Dynasty. Zhaoling Tomb is a fully restored mausoleum according to the old site of the Ming Dynasty, which is magnificent with high pines and glorious halls.