Introduction

Ancient Chinese architecture is a beautiful gem as well as an integral part of Chinese culture. It is also one of the three greatest architectural systems in the world, the other two being European and Arabic architecture.

As Liang Sicheng (1901–1972), known as “father of modern Chinese architecture,” once pointed out that the architecture of China is as old as Chinese civilization. Some archaeological discoveries indicate that Chinese people began to develop a unique construction style as early as more than 7,000 years ago.

During the following centuries, Chinese artisans, builders and architects had invented a great number of ingenious tools, construction parts, structures as well as architectural designs, techniques and styles. They had also married the art and science of designing and erecting buildings with Chinese philosophy, religion, local customs and the traditional system of social hierarchy.

As time went by, many beautiful and grandiose buildings, such as palaces, temples, mausoleums, bridges and distinctive dwellings were built all around the country and a small number of them, such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and the First Emperor’s Mausoleum, which features life-sized terracotta warriors, are still in existence.

So, traveling around China today, you may cross a bridge that was built several hundred years ago; or you may stay for a night in a courtyard or a cave-house that have been the traditional dwellings for the local people for centuries.

It is a feast for your eyes to visit famous temples, palaces and old gardens featuring exquisite designs and decorations in different part of the country. However, what’s more interesting or even enlightening are the historical stories behind the walls of these buildings.

In this book, the authors will tell you many of such stories and will guide you as you knock on the gate of this ancient kingdom.