Chongqing Wuming Que

　　Introduction     Commonly known as Baota Zi, it is located in Youxi Village, Tujing Township, 8 kilometers north of Zhongxian County. Built during the Eastern Han Dynasty, it has a history of over 1,800 years and remains well-preserved to this day. The que stands 5.44 meters tall and consists of nine tiers, spanning 8 meters on each side. It is an unusual structure formed by stacking nine differently shaped stone blocks that interlock with one another. The base is thick and sturdy, with the front carved with a beast that resembles neither a dragon nor a tiger. Above it are hung crossbeams, lintels, and bracket sets that together form the body, eaves, and roof of the que. On the corners of the third and sixth tiers are intricately carved nude male and female atlas figures, depicted as brave and muscular, bending at the waist and knees, exerting their full strength as if holding up the entire stele. Various birds and beasts are carved all around these figures. The roof of the que features a turtle-shaped creature symbolizing longevity and good fortune as its decorative tile ridge.

　　 Chongqing Zhongxian County