On 20 March 1536, Xichang (then known as Jianchang) and Mianning, Sichuan, Ming dynasty, were struck by an earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 7.3 Ms.

The plateau is spreading laterally eastwards, to southeastwards, partly accommodated by a series of major strike-slip faults.

[1][3][5] The extent of damage and casualties was reported by Yuancheng Cao, the official responsible for judging affairs in Sichuan.

In Xichang all buildings were destroyed, including government offices, prisons, storehouses and houses (both military and civilian).

[1][6] Further north in Mianning, every house was destroyed and the city walls completely collapsed and thousands were killed.