Zhaoling Mausoleum, Imperial mausoleum in Changping District, Beijing, China.
Zhaoling Mausoleum is an imperial burial complex in Changping, Beijing covering roughly 34,000 square meters. Stone sculptures of mythical creatures line the pathways, while structures including the stele pavilion and Ling'en Hall organize the layout.
The burial site was constructed between 1573 and 1580 and contains the remains of the Longqing Emperor who ruled the Ming dynasty from 1566 to 1572. Building took place after his death and followed the imperial burial practices of that period.
The site follows classical Chinese building principles with a central axis connecting different areas and reflecting the balance between heavenly and earthly realms. Visitors can observe how the symmetrical arrangement of structures and statues mirrors the order found in traditional Chinese burial sites.
The site is open to visitors and lies within the Ming tomb complex near Beijing, where only a few burial grounds are accessible to the public. Well-maintained pathways and signage make it straightforward to explore the different sections comfortably.
This burial site preserves original auxiliary buildings including a sacred kitchen and storage room, features rarely found intact at other Ming tombs. These structures offer insights into daily logistics and provisions organized around the burial.
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