Ming Dynasty Memorial Arches of Zhao’an

Ming Dynasty Memorial Arches of Zhao’an

The Ming Dynasty Memorial Arches of Zhao’an are protected cultural heritage sites of Zhao’an County.

Along an ancient residential complex stretching over 700 meters from Xianqian Street in the county town to Dongmen Middle Street, stand seven grand and magnificent memorial arches. In chronological order of their construction, they are named the Duojin Arch, Qingdian Arch, Baishou Arch, Tianchong Chongbao Arch, Fuzi Jinshi Arch, Gaochi Shenyi Arch, and Guandi Arch. These highly skilled and exquisitely detailed historical relics incorporate a variety of artistic techniques including architecture, carving, calligraphy, and poetry, offering profound cultural significance. In feudal society, to honor those who made outstanding contributions and demonstrated exceptional virtues such as loyalty, filial piety, chastity, and righteousness, the ruling emperor would often approve the construction of memorial arches at the entrance of their hometowns or villages, encouraging others to follow their example in serving the court. The Ming Dynasty Memorial Arches of Zhao’an are no exception. In July 2000, the People’s Government of Zhao’an County applied for their recognition as national-level cultural heritage sites.

Nan Zhao Town: Located in the southern part of Zhao’an County and bordering the Dongxi River to the east, Nan Zhao Town is the economic, political, and cultural center of the county. It is recognized as the “Hometown of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Art” and the “Hometown of Chinese Folk Culture and Arts,” as well as being designated a provincial-level “Civilized Town,” “Commercial and Trade Hub,” and “Ecological Township.” The current urban area covers 17.5 square kilometers, with a planned area of 36.7 square kilometers. The town governs 15 communities and 2 administrative villages, with a total population of approximately 81,000. In 2015, the total rural economic income was 261.11 million yuan, and the per capita net income of farmers was 14,000 yuan.

In recent years, with the advancement of urbanization... More details about Nan Zhao Town++