City layout embodied in the central line

Looking back at the evolution of the central line, you can also trace the development of the ideas regarding city layouts in China. Early in the Zhou Dynasty (About 11th century - 221BC), the notion to build the imperial palace in the center and surround it with multiple layers was formed, with an outline in the shape of a tic-tac-toe board. Beijing followed this tradition when it was first constructed. Unlike other maritime cities like Shanghai, Qingdao, and Dalian, which were usually built along the river or the sea, Beijing, as the capital, had a square layout before it emerged as a city.

After the Han Dynasty (206BC-25AD), this notion changed with the emergence of a distinctive central line, with Yecheng built by Cao Cao during the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280) as the earliest representative. From that time on, many cities began to boast central lines.

Dadu in the Yuan Dynasty

Zhou Capital

Yecheng built by Cao Cao

By comparison with other central lines, Beijing's is longer on its southern end, and the buildings on the two sides are highly symmetrical. However, the largest change of Beijing's central line comes at the northern end. In the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), the building at the northern end is a temple. But after the Ming Dynasty, the constructions on the northern end were the Drum and Bell Towers, which dislpay the current time, serving the people living around it, rather than gods.

Cultural significance

Beijing's central line embodies some of the most important values, like the doctrine of the golden mean and harmony. As an ancient capital, Beijing has been prosperous for more than six centuries, and the lives of local people have always been relaxed, harmonious, and easy.

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