The Great Wall of China is the longest man-made structure ever built
Located in Badaling about 37 miles northwest of Beijing, the Great Wall of China, the longest man-made structure ever built, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was built over 2000 years ago, around 221 BC, and stretches approximately 6000 kilometres across Northern China. It is truly a spectacular scene and here are a few reasons why you need to add it to your travel list today. Cheap flights from Dubai are available to China.
Architectural Wonder
The Great Wall of China was built over many years. For centuries, it was built, re-built, and expanded by successive dynasties in the Chinese empire. The wall is made of brick, stone, tamped earth, and wood, across the parched mountainsides. Many thousands of people participated in building the wall; records show that about 300,000 soldiers and 500,000 common people were involved in the construction of the original wall under Emperor Qin. Can you imagine how difficult it was to get the wall to what it is today? With such steep hillsides and the nature of the terrain on the mountains, it is hard to even grasp how it was done and what techniques were used to transport the stones. Many people lost their lives during this work and archaeologists discovered many human remains buried underneath various sections of the wall. Its impressive specifications and unsurpassed surfaces are enough reasons to visit this historic place.
Chinese History
The original wall is believed to have been built under the rule of Emperor Qin, who successfully unified parts of China around 221 BC. It was built for the purpose of protecting China from invasion or any attacks from northern invaders. The wall had a series of watch towers and forts for soldiers and weapons. Beacons were used to pass messages easily and quickly. It is believed that at one time in history soldiers were stationed along the entire length of the wall. The wall embodies the sense of China as a nation; learning their history while at the astounding site is very interesting. You simply cannot travel to China without visiting the Great Wall.
Endurance
Climbing the steep steps of the Great Wall is no easy task. If you want to test your endurance, the Great Wall is the perfect place. Climbing across Simatai or Shixiaguan can be extra tricky as both have sharp slopes, but they make for an excellent once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can totally brag about climbing them to the end when you get back!
Adventure
For thrill-seeking travellers, paragliding at Simatai is a must. Wing China offers tourists a rare chance to leap off to the edge of the Simatai section of the Great Wall and glide almost 1000 feet into the valley below. Paragliding is permitted throughout all sections of the wall and after that how about enjoying a hike back up to the wall or directly through the surrounding countryside? Hiking is actually quite popular in the area of the Great Wall; there are even companies offering overnight hiking trips to complete your adventure.