For subscribers
Letter From Beijing, Tianjin
This man spent 20 years of his life restoring the most dangerous part of the Great Wall of China
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
The restoration of the Great Wall of China led by Mr Cheng Yongmao is considered the finest, drawing rebuilders from across the country to study the craftsmanship.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF CHENG YONGMAO
Follow topic:
The Great Wall is more than just an architectural wonder; it stands as a symbol of resilience, ambition and the rich dynastic history of China, remaining a source of national pride. Stretching over 21,000km across 15 provinces, this man-made marvel has stood the test of time for over 2,000 years, during which numerous emperors have built and rebuilt the chain of fortifications to defend their borders.
While large swathes of the bulwark have been damaged or disintegrated with time, a generation of Great Wall guardians is stepping up to protect it, following in the footsteps of three men who have led the way in preserving the legacy of this iconic landmark.
