Hua'e Tulou, Tulou in Dabu County, China
Hua'e Tulou is a massive building with thick rammed-earth walls and multiple stories arranged in a circular pattern around a central courtyard. This courtyard serves as an open gathering space and gives the entire complex its defining appearance.
The building was constructed as part of a building tradition spanning from the 12th to the 20th century, created by Hakka people seeking protection from external threats. These structures evolved from practical needs for defense and multigenerational family living.
The interior shows how multiple families lived and worked together, with private rooms for each household and shared spaces for daily activities. You can still see today how residents used the different levels and areas of the building.
The thick earthen walls maintain a constant temperature throughout the year, making it comfortable without modern climate control systems. When exploring, take time to move through the different levels and rooms to understand how the space is structured.
The building was designed for defense with a single entrance, reinforced wooden doors, and gun ports built into the upper levels. These features show how residents created security through architecture.
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