China’s civilization and society is much older and richer than another in the world. The lineage of emperors and eras of various dynasties that have contributed to building China as we see it today are varied. One of the most prominent of these dynasties was the Ming era. The emperors of this dynasty got a lot of buildings constructed, repaired as well as restored. Many parts of the Great Wall of China were built under this dynasty. Therefore it comes as no surprise that they made fantastic and beautiful tombs for themselves.50 kilometers northwest of the capital of China are the 13 awesome mausoleums which are collectively called the Ming Tombs. These mausoleums are similar in their layout but differ in size. The largest mausoleum is of emperor Zhu Di and his wife and goes by the name of Changling. The other 12 mausoleums are built around the Changling tomb and are much smaller in size. Since these structures still house the necropolis of the emperors they are of high value in terms of not only the history they have seen but also the regard that they inspire. Therefore it is but natural that all the tombs are not open to the public. The general public has access to only two tombs namely the Changling tomb which is the largest and the Dingling Tomb which is underground. The entire complex covers about 15 square miles.

Since the ancient Chinese architecture is all influenced and planned by Feng Shui, it is but obvious that the burial grounds were no exception. The interesting part though is that Emperor Yongle selected his burial grounds himself. Since the tomb grounds were not open to the general public they have been enclosed by a 22.5 kilometer long wall and there is a seven kilometer path leading to the tombs which has been aptly named the Spirit way. According to Feng Shui the evil winds blow from the north therefore the tombs have been built at the foot of the Jundu Mountains which prevent these winds from blowing over the tombs.  The gate leading to the tombs is humongous and has three arches and is red in color, a reason for it being called the ‘Great Red Gate’.

The Changling tomb is the largest and is completely in its original condition. It has 32 posts inside it. The palace is made of Camphor wood and the floor has gold bricks which add to the beauty of the palace. Even the ceiling is painted in nice colors and is held up by 16 camphor wood posts. The Dingling Tomb is underground so is not highly recommended for those who have heart conditions. The lighting is dim and the smell of earth is all over the tomb. It is a mausoleum for Emperor Zhu Yijun who ruled the longest and was the thirteenth ruler of the Ming dynasty.

The entire tomb complex is not to be missed by those who wish to see the grandeur in which the kings not only lived but also died. 

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