Jinshanling, Great Wall section in Luanping County, China
Jinshanling is a section of the Great Wall in Luanping County and stretches across mountain ridges with numerous watchtowers and several passes. The wall follows the natural contours of the hills and forms a zigzag line that is visible far in both directions on clear days.
Construction began in the late 14th century under a general of the early Ming Dynasty. A military commander reinforced the structures in the 16th century to better protect the northern border.
The name means "ridge of the golden mountain" and comes from the yellowish rocks that glow especially bright at sunrise. Hikers from the region arrive early in the morning to watch the long row of watchtowers in the morning light.
The paths on the wall are partly steep and uneven, so sturdy shoes and some stamina are necessary. Visitors should bring enough water, as there are only a few vendors along the route.
Some towers have different roof shapes like vaulted ceilings or octagonal patterns that are rarely found in other sections. Archaeologists have discovered more than a thousand objects from the military period inside the towers, including tools and everyday items.
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