Reviving history: Jiankou Great Wall's preservation success

Located in the Huairou district of northern Beijing, the Jiankou Great Wall is a remarkable segment of the Ming Great Wall, celebrated for its steep terrain and well-preserved, untouched ruins. Constructed primarily during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), this section of the Great Wall features a rugged landscape and architectural remnants that maintain their original structural layout and historical significance. As an authentic testament to the ancient northern border military systems, Jiankou is a vital component of Beijing's cultural heritage.

Over the past decade, systematic preservation efforts have been undertaken at the Jiankou Great Wall with a focus on minimal intervention. These efforts have led to the development of the "Five-Fellow" technique, a targeted restoration approach that respects the strata, slope, curve, old traces, and remains of the Great Wall. This method emphasizes heritage-oriented craftsmanship, avoiding over-renovation and meticulously preserving the wall's historical texture and natural weathering. This approach has culminated in the widely acclaimed "Jiankou Model," a standardized, scientific, and heritage-protective restoration system.

In recent years, ongoing archaeological excavations at Jiankou have yielded a wealth of tangible discoveries, offering a vivid glimpse into the daily lives of Ming Dynasty frontier garrisons.