Tomb of Zheng He, Memorial tomb in Niushou Mountain, Nanjing, China.
The tomb of Admiral Zheng He is a memorial complex on Niushou Mountain in Nanjing that documents his travels. A memorial hall displays navigation maps and paintings showing his voyages throughout Asia and Africa.
The complex was built during the Ming Dynasty in 1435 but served as a cenotaph, as the admiral died at sea near Calicut in India. His remains were never interred there, yet the monument honored his maritime legacy.
The burial site blends Chinese and Islamic architectural features, as Zheng He followed the Islamic faith. Arabic inscriptions and traditional Islamic grave customs appear throughout the complex, reflecting his religious background.
The climb to the tomb follows 28 stone steps arranged in four sections of seven steps each. The site is walkable, and visitors should allow time to explore the memorial hall and the grounds.
The admiral commanded seven major voyages between 1405 and 1433, during which Chinese fleets sailed to the east coast of Africa. Many of his personal possessions, including a sword decorated with Arabic inscriptions, are displayed in the complex.
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