The Great Wall

The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications built primarily to protect Chinese states and empires from invasions. Construction began as early as the 7th century BC and continued over several dynasties, notably the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Stretching over 13,000 miles, it includes walls, trenches, and natural barriers. While it is often thought of as a single wall, it consists of various sections built from different materials. The Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbolizes China's historical strength and architectural ingenuity, attracting millions of visitors annually.