The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China was built in northern China to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire from attack against nomadic tribes.

Many different walls have been built since the 5th century BC that are collectively referred to as the Great Wall.

One of the most popular of the walls was built between 220-206 BC by the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang.

The majority of the wall that exist today was built by the Ming Dynasty.

Tower door way leading down a flight of stairs.

Many Watchtowers and Barracks were built into the wall for the soldiers on watch.

Many areas of the wall have been built up very steep mountains.

In this picture we see a very well preserved section of the wall with two watchtowers.

With all its branches the total length of the Great Wall is 8,851.8 km (5,500.3 mi).

Reaching all the way from Shanhaiguan in the east, to Lop Nur in the west.

Beautiful winter time visit.