Nanjing Attractions,Nanjing Popular Tourists Attractions Guide

A precious cultural relic, Zhonghua Gate has the double distinction of being the biggest castle-style city gate in China and a structural element of the most complicated castle in the world. It is the castle's magnificent scale, delicate structure, and the great skill with which it was built that bequeath it an important place in China's military and architectural traditions.

Zhonghua Gate lies in the south of Nanjing City. It is the biggest castle-like gate among the thirteen city gates of the old city wall in Nanjing. Zhonghua Gate is the largest one of its kind in China and also the most complicated and best-preserved city gate in the world. Having experienced changes over more than 600 years, Zhonghua Gate is extremely well kept except for some small cracks of the brick construction. The gate is an excellent design and has relatively high military and artistic value. It is agreed that Zhonghua Gate is the most distinctive scenic spot along the Qinhuai River.

Altogether three enclosures for defense lie in the gate. There are 13 caves for hiding soldiers on and under the enclosures and another 14 caves of this kind under the “ma dao” (a way mainly for horses). They are used for storing military materials and concealing soldiers for ambush in wartime. Wide and steep horse ways on both sides of the enclosures are used for carrying needed materials. This type of military establishment was very useful in ancient battles. When attacked, soldiers can get into the gate and close every city gate, splitting the enemy into three groups. Soldiers inside the gate can annihilate them, going after an easy prey.