A recent exchange event of the International Ancient Walls and Castles Alliance, or IAWCA announced in Guangzhou that the historic walls of Huizhou Ancient City in Shexian county had become a new member.
The ancient walls of Huizhou are deemed to represent a typical example of Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties fortifications in the mountainous region in the southern part of Anhui.
They consist of the city walls of the prefectural capital and the county town walls. The space enclosed by the prefectural capital walls was the administrative center of Huizhou Prefecture Government at that time.
The IAWCA is a sub-organization of the Asia-Pacific Tourism Committee of the Barcelona-based United Cities and Local Governments organization. Since its establishment, it's been dedicated to promoting the conservation, utilization and management of global walls and castles.
Member units collaborate to share technological innovations and conservation experiences and to facilitate the widespread application and promotion of academic achievements.
What's more, they work together to promote the inheritance and development of ancient fortification cultures in various countries and cities.
The event in Guangzhou marks the second exchange activity since the establishment of the IAWCA.
A panoramic aerial view of the walls at Huizhou Ancient City. [Photo/Huangshan Daily]
Always impressive: The formidable walls of Huizhou Ancient City. [Photo/Huangshan Daily]