Tianjing Pass

　　Tianjing Pass (Fourth Batch Provincial Protected Site)

　　Era: Han, Tang to Qing Dynasties

　　Address: Jinmiaopu Town, Zezhou County

　　Tianjing Pass, also known as Taihang Pass, derives its name from three naturally formed deep pits (known as "Tianjing" or "Heavenly Wells") located to the south of the pass. It is an important strategic pass built along the perilous Taihang Mountains, serving as a vital transportation route between Shanxi and Henan Provinces. The earliest historical record of Tianjing Pass can be found in the “Geographical Records” section of the Book of Han, which states: “Shangdang’s Gaoyou has Tianjing Pass, also called the Heavenly Gate.” During the second year of the Jianwu era in the Han Dynasty, the Minister of Works Wang Liang was dispatched to defend Tianjing Pass against the Red Eyebrows rebels, marking the beginning of frequent military conflicts in the area. It stands as a significant ancient military site.

　　Extending 25 kilometers southward, Tianjing Pass branches into two passes — the Greater and Lesser Passes — leading to the provincial border. Along the route, there are numerous fortified towns, ancient roads, and strongholds. Existing architectural ruins include Tianjing Pass, Confucius Temple, Xingyao Post, Hengwang Pass, Wanzi City, Yangchang Slope, Panshi Great Wall, ancient fortresses, and more than ten other sites.