Recent archaeological discoveries prompted historians to reconsider long-held beliefs about the Great Wall of China. For centuries, the monumental structure was viewed primarily as a defensive fortification built to protect the empire from northern invaders. However, new findings suggest its purpose may have been far more complex. Scientific advances and new archaeological technologies revealed previously unknown aspects of the Great Wall, contributing to the re-evaluation of its historical significance.
An article published in the University of Cambridge's journal sheds light on this new perspective. The study focuses on a 737-kilometer-long medieval wall, running from northern China to northeastern Mongolia, built by the Liao or Jin dynasties. The wall has numerous auxiliary structures that hint at its function. Researchers employed extensive archaeological study and GIS analysis to better understand the reasons behind its construction and possible functions.
Traditionally considered a defensive barrier against aggressive nomadic tribes, the Great Wall may have also served other purposes. Recent findings suggest it was used to control the movement of local nomadic groups following imperialist expansion. One intriguing hypothesis is that the Wall was at the service of pastoralism, which was very important in this area of the empire. The Wall might have been employed to protect sectors upon which humanity depends, such as the shepherds who occupied the area. Without them, the constant growth of the population would have been impossible.
Measuring over 21,000 kilometers, the Great Wall was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987 and is one of the most admired monuments worldwide. In 2007, after a public contest, the list of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World was announced, which includes the Great Wall of China, according to Marca.
For centuries, the Wall has held secrets that are only now beginning to be understood. The Municipal Bureau of Landscape and Forestry of Beijing estimates that average daily visitors to the Wall number approximately 50,000 among the different sections available for tourist visits, reflecting more than 15 million visitors a year.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.