At two kilometres in circumference and protected by an imposing 12-metre wall, the Ming Dynasty's 'Martial City' had a reputation that struck fear into opposing armies. So much so that battle plans would be drawn up to specifically give the castle at Zhangjiakou, in China's northern Hebei province, a wide berth. Now archaeologists have begun a daunting project to restore the once-mighty site to something approaching it previous glory, in particular the dilapidated outer wall that repelled every attack which invading Mongolian armies could throw at it. Among the works being carried out at Wanquan Castle is the restoration of the fortress' dilapidated outer wallHistorians are hoping the Wanquan Castle can be restored to its former glory, particularly its imposing outer wallFortress was built in 1393 and successfully repelled every attack that invading Mongolian armies threw at itCastle has huge historical, cultural and military significance and has key cultural relic status for Chinese people
The Ming Dynasty ruled China for 276 years, between the years 1368 and 1644, and is often described as the last of the great _ dynasties. Art flourished during the _, which saw an explosion of literature, painting, poetry, music and porcelain - with Ming vases and plates valuable collector items to this day.