Zhuolu Drum Tower

Zhuolu Drum Tower

The Zhuolu Drum Tower is a cultural relic protection unit of Hebei Province.

The Zhuolu Drum Tower is located in the center of the old town of Zhuolu County, also known as the "Wenchang Pavilion." It was built between the 10th and 17th years of the Wanli era in the Ming Dynasty (1582–1589). This brick-and-wood structure features a double-eaved, hip-and-gable roof design, with a tall, cruciform arched gate foundation at its base. The bottom part is square, measuring 15 meters on each side and standing 8.5 meters high. It opens onto all four sides, with each facade archway bearing a plaque: the south reads “Civilization,” the north “Arching Heaven,” the east “Holding the Sun,” and the west “Climbing the Toad.” On the north side of the eastern archway, there is a passageway leading up to the tower. Above the foundation stands a two-story structure with double eaves and surrounding corridors, the eaves slightly upturned and wind chimes tinkling softly. The lower level is the “Wenchang Pavilion,” with a corridor extending from the southern side, commonly referred to as the “Little South Heaven Gate,” and bears a plaque inscribed “Ancient Zhuolu Commandery.”

In July 1993, it was designated as a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit by the People’s Government of Hebei Province.

The entire drum tower is majestic and grand, exhibiting distinct architectural characteristics of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is the only surviving major structure of the ancient Bao’an City. It has now become a symbol of Zhuolu Ancient Town and a testament to the long history of the county. Its preservation reflects directly on Zhuolu’s external image.

Further Reading:

· Third Batch of Cultural Relic Protection Units of Hebei Province