Imagine a city so grand that it was once the largest, most populous, and most prosperous international metropolis in the world. Welcome to Chang’an, the ancient capital of China’s Tang Dynasty—a city that stood as a beacon of culture, commerce, and architectural brilliance.
Chang’an’s city planning was meticulous and ahead of its time. Centered around the imperial palace, with the palace city located to its north, the outer city walls encompassed the entire urban area. Its streets were laid out like a chessboard, with main thoroughfares running east-west and north-south, dividing the city into 108 residential wards and two bustling markets in the east and west. Within these wards, residents lived in orderly communities, and markets thrived with activity.
This city’s design not only showcased the supreme authority of imperial power but also reflected the Tang Dynasty’s advanced wisdom and aesthetic pursuits in urban planning. Chang’an was more than just a city; it was the epitome of ancient Chinese city planning and a witness to the Tang Dynasty’s prosperity and openness.
As a crucial hub for cultural exchange between East and West, Chang’an played a significant role in the Silk Road, welcoming envoys and merchants from around the world. Even today, the allure of Chang’an’s historical grandeur continues to captivate imaginations and inspire awe.
