Building works started on the Great Wall during the Qin dynasty more than 2,000 years ago. This fantastic monument is about 5,000 miles long. Its height varies from 15 to 30 feet, with a breadth of up to 30 feet as well. The wall has a number of watchtowers and ancient fortifications for stationing the ancient armies tasked with preventing incursions by neighboring tribes. The "Spaced Out" program on the Science Channel confirms the belief that parts of the wall can be viewed from outer space, indicative of the massive nature of this manmade monument.
The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor was discovered by archaeologists in 1974 and dates back to 210 B.C. The mausoleum is located at the foot of Mount Li, about one hour's journey from Xian city. The burial place consists of row upon row of full-sized figures constructed of terracotta, representing the imperial army of Emperor Qin Shui Huang. Statues include warriors, horses, chariots and weapons. The figures were an attempt by the Emperor to take an army with him into the afterlife. It is believed that major discoveries are still to be made at this site.
The Forbidden City of China is located close by Tian'an Men Square in Beijing and housed the Imperial Emperors of China. This monument to China's imperial legacy is the most-visited attraction in China. The orginal building of the palace began in 1406 and housed 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
China's long history of civilization indicates the plethora of historic monuments in the country; these include temples, pagodas, palaces and ancient cities. More modern Chinese monuments include the futuristic buildings designed for the 2008 Olympics, such as the doughnut-shaped headquarters of China Central Television and the zinc-coated Television Cultural Center, together with Terminal 3 at the Beijing Capital International Airport, the world's largest airport terminal.
