Located in Lingshi County, Shanxi, the fortress compound is a tight arrangement of courtyard residences.

[2] The local Wangs would reach its apex of wealth and power in 18th century after accumulating riches from business and government position.

By the 19th century the fortunes of the family declined and some members took to degeneracy, opium smoking, and public corruption.

[3] The scattered site made up of several dwelling areas is built on the slope of the Mianshan Mountain on a loessial terrace and faces a river.

[3] During the reign of the Qianlong Emperor, the Zhongling lane and Hongmen, Gongji, and Dongnan fortresses were also built.