China's Great Wall damaged by two seeking a vehicle shortcut

Two resident of China in Shanxi province used heavy machinery to damage a preserved section of the Great Wall of China, aiming to create a shortcut for their vehicle

Great Wall of China

Great Wall of China © unsplash.com, Jamie Street

In a shocking act of disregard for historical monuments, two resident of China have caused significant damage to the Great Wall of China. Their motive? To carve out a shortcut for their vehicle.

This incident took place in Shanxi province, where the two, armed with heavy machinery, decided to remove a substantial portion of this iconic structure.

Damaged section of the Great Wall of China

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Damaged section of the Great Wall of China \ Photo: Youyu County security office

The individuals, identified as a 38-year-old man named Zheng and a 55-year-old woman named Wang, both hail from Inner Mongolia. They employed an excavator to enlarge an already existing gap in the wall, allowing their machinery to pass through.

Their actions were not hidden for long. Local authorities in Youyu County were alerted about the damage on August 24th. Swiftly responding, they reached the scene and apprehended the duo alongside the excavator on the very same day.

A 38-year-old man named Zheng and a 55-year-old woman named Wang who damaged the Great Wall of China

A 38-year-old man named Zheng and a 55-year-old woman named Wang who damaged the Great Wall of China \ Photo: Youyu County security office

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What is known about the damaged section of the Great Wall of China

The damaged section of the wall is particularly significant. It was constructed during the Ming Dynasty, a period between 1368 and 1644. This era of the wall is renowned for its well-preserved sections, often showcased in various travel publications and photographs.

The Ming Dynasty's stretch of the wall spans approximately 5,500 miles, which is less than half of the wall's total length. This iconic structure was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, emphasizing its global importance.

Damaged section of the Great Wall of China

Damaged section of the Great Wall of China \ Photo: Youyu County security office

Such acts of vandalism remind us of the need to respect and preserve our shared global heritage.

The Great Wall of China: brief overview

The Great Wall of China, stretching over 13,000 miles, stands as a testament to China's ancient architectural prowess and strategic defense. Initiated in the 7th century BC, its construction spanned various dynasties, with the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) contributing significantly.

Originally built to fend off invasions, the wall evolved into a symbol of unity and strength. Winding through mountains, deserts, and grasslands, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an iconic representation of Chinese culture and history.

The Great Wall of China stands as a testament to human achievement and perseverance. It's our collective responsibility to ensure its preservation for future generations.

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