

Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan)
Known as the "Garden of Perfect Brightness", the Old Summer Palace was once the most magnificent imperial garden in Chinese history, covering an area of 3.5 square kilometers. Constructed during the Qing Dynasty, it was a complex of palaces and gardens that showcased the pinnacle of Chinese landscape design and architectural artistry. Tragically, the palace was largely destroyed by Anglo-French troops during the Second Opium War in 1860, leaving behind haunting ruins that now serve as a powerful historical memorial. Today, the site is both a historical park and a poignant reminder of China's historical wounds. Visitors can explore the remaining ruins, reconstructed gardens, and learn about the rich cultural heritage and complex history of 19th-century China.