18/40.- Xian, the Bell Tower

The Bell Tower (Zhong Lou) is in the center of the city, at the junction of Xian's two main avenues. This great building is always a spectacular sight, even more by night. The building was originally built 30 yards from its current position back in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty. In 1582 it was moved brick by brick to its current position. In 1739 it was restored.

The tower was built to tell the time to citizens of Xian, back then when watches were still to be invented. A huge bell hangs from the roof of the tower, and some smaller ones hang from other halls. The only access to the building is from the subway passage, where you buy the entrance ticket.

West of the Bell Tower is the Drum tower.

[Next »]