Overview
The Great Wall of China is an ancient series of walls and fortifications, totaling more than 13,000 miles in length, located in northern China. Perhaps the most recognizable symbol of China and its long and vivid history, the Great Wall was originally conceived by Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the third century B.C. as a means of preventing incursions from barbarian nomads.
Did You Know?
- The wall is not a continuous line; there are side walls, circular walls, parallel walls, and sections with no wall at all.
- The Great Wall is more than a wall; it's a system of fortifications including watchtowers, beacon towers, and barracks.
- Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China is not visible from space with the naked eye.