Zhonghua Gate, Nanjing

The Zhonghua Gate (traditional Chinese: 中華門; simplified Chinese: 中华门; pinyin: Zhōnghuámén), is a gate and defensive complex on the city wall of Nanjing, China.

[1] The city wall of Nanjing was built from 1360 to 1386 under the founder of the Ming dynasty, the Hongwu Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang.

In 1368, Zhu Yuanzhang was crowned Emperor, and made Nanjing his capital.

[2] It was built on the site of the south gate of the capital city of the Southern Tang dynasty.

In the middle of the lower step was constructed an arched gate leading to barbican.

There are 27 soldier staying holes altogether in all the barbican and two paved ramps by which mounted troops can ride to the top.

It still holds its original state except that the wooden structure has been destroyed and some features on the wall constructed of sticks and stones.

It was listed on the cultural and scenic spots under careful protection by the Jiangsu provincial government in 1957 and the state council in 1988.

[3] The area is accessible within walking distance north of Zhonghuamen Station of Nanjing Metro.