Mansion of Prince Zhong of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, Historical residence in Suzhou, China
The Mansion of Prince Zhong is a large residential complex from the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom period in Suzhou with office areas, private quarters, and multiple gardens. Various sections are connected by ornately decorated corridors that extend throughout the entire grounds.
The building was constructed in 1860 by Li Xiucheng, a military leader of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, on the former grounds of the famous Humble Administrator's Garden. This construction took place during the height of the Taiping state before its collapse in the early 1860s.
The main hall displays over 400 painted beams and nine wall murals that reflect the craftsmanship and taste of the 19th century. These decorations show the artistic skills that were valued in wealthy households at that time.
The mansion is open to visitors daily and offers guided tours in multiple languages to fully understand the history and craftsmanship. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since exploring the different rooms and gardens requires time and walking.
This residence is the most complete surviving complex from the Taiping period in all of China and shows how the leaders of that movement lived. The structure and room arrangement reveal personal aspects of Li Xiucheng's daily life that are rarely mentioned in historical documents.
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