A historical block in Nanchang, capital of east China's Jiangxi Province, featuring local cultural icon the Wanshou Palace, has become a popular attraction by harmoniously blending traditional elements like ancient buildings with modern amenities such as restaurants and cultural entertainment facilities, highlighting the city's rich cultural heritage and innovative development approach.
In the downtown area of Nanchang, the historical and cultural block encompasses an old residential block, a commercial block, and a religious and cultural block, featuring eight ancient streets and a cluster of historical buildings reflecting the architectural styles during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
Built in 312, the Wanshou Palace, also known as Tiezhu Wanshou Palace, is a famous Taoist temple at the heart of the block.
In 1595, the Italian Jesuit priest Matteo Ricci visited Jiangxi and chanced upon the Wanshou Palace, where he was awestruck by its grandeur and the vibrant markets surrounding it. In his biography, he described the palace as magnificent and bustling with trade.
When explaining Nanchang to his European friends, he remarked, "Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi Province, appears to me to be twice the size of Florence. While its commerce may not rival that of Guangzhou, the streets are broad and clean." This depiction of Nanchang and the Wanshou Palace was subsequently shared with Europe through Matteo Ricci's biography.
The historical and cultural block was one of the three major commercial centers in the regions south of the Yangtze River during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties. Flourishing as a vibrant commercial hub, it owed its prosperity to the rapid development of water transportation, attracting numerous merchants to conduct business and establish residential communities within the block.
Today, the block maintains its historic charm. After thorough renovations, it reopened to the public with a new look while preserving its original layout, historical relics, and ancient residences. Meanwhile, it expanded to include modern buildings, leisure areas, and tourism facilities. Visitors can savor local foods, browse interesting stalls, watch traditional performances, take photos in ancient costumes, immersing themselves in its renewed energy.
To this day, the historical and cultural block stands as a significant landmark, showcasing the historical evolution, commercial development, traditional folk customs, local culture, and ancient architectural styles of the region.
Wanshou Palace block in Nanchang attracts tourists with fusion of tradition, modernity
