Porcelain Tower of Nanjing

The Porcelain Tower of Nanjing is a large religious building in eastern China that rises through nine stories to approximately 70 meters (230 feet) high with a white glazed tile facade. The octagonal structure sits on the grounds of Baoen Temple south of the city center along the Qinhuai River and can be viewed from multiple levels within.

Emperor Yongle ordered construction of this tower between 1411 and 1428 as a tribute to his mother. The original structure was destroyed during the Taiping Rebellion in the 1800s and has only recently been rebuilt.

The octagonal tower was built as a Buddhist temple where pilgrims came to worship for centuries. Today visitors come to experience its artistry, with glazed tiles covering the exterior in intricate patterns.

The structure is located on temple grounds south of downtown and is easily accessible, with viewing platforms at different levels. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for climbing and allow time to explore the various levels and enjoy the views over the city.

The original building carried more than 140 lamps on its exterior that were lit from inside at night, creating a glowing effect. European travelers in the 1600s described this structure as one of Asia's greatest wonders in their written accounts.