I’ve seen a lot of beautiful architecture during my travels: castles, cathedrals, mosques, bridges, towers, museums. However, one of the most interesting kinds of architecture I’ve come across is the wall. In ancient and medieval times, walls were the best way to protect a city, but after the medieval era, walls were deemed useless because of inventions (such as the cannon) which could propel ammunition over the walls, so they were often torn down. A few examples still stand. |
The Chinese began construction on several walls in the 7th century BC which were later joined together. Most of the current wall was built between the 14th and 17th centuries. It’s purpose? Regulate trade, keep out neighbors, control immigration. It crosses northern China, and ends in the Bohai Sea. Yes, it just goes a few yards out into the sea and ends, which I find a little anti-climactic.
Salzburg’s Hohensalzburg Castle still has its medieval wall. You get over the wall in a little funicular railroad, then you poke around the castle until you get hungry. At least, that’s the way I did it. It’s a beautifully preserved castle with lovely views. The castle was built in the 11th century by Catholic archbishops who were feuding with the monarchy. Boy, talk about separation of church and state--these guys were serious! We just separate church and state with some laws, but they separated them with walls.
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