Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory

The Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory is an ancient stargazing station in Dengfeng, Henan, built from a square brick platform reaching about 9.5 meters high. Stone stairs on the north side provide access to the upper level where observers once recorded the movements of celestial bodies.

The observatory was established in 1276 under Emperor Shizu of the Yuan Dynasty as the central hub for 27 astronomical stations spread across China. This network allowed scholars to collect observations from multiple locations and coordinate their celestial research on a national scale.

The observatory was a place where scholars studied the heavens to improve timekeeping across the empire. This work helped farmers and officials coordinate their activities by following an accurate calendar.

The site is located near Mount Songshan and remains open to visitors under the care of the Dengfeng Bureau of Cultural Relics. Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended since reaching the observation platform requires climbing stairs and exploring the surroundings on foot.

Scholars working here calculated the solar year with only 26 minutes difference from modern measurements, accomplishing this about 300 years before the Gregorian calendar was adopted elsewhere. This precision shows how advanced celestial observation had become during this period.

Location: Henan

Part of: Historic Monuments of Dengfeng in “The Centre of Heaven and Earth”

GPS coordinates: 34.40241,113.14071

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44