Xi'an

The city of Xi'an, located in the heart of China in Shaanxi Province, served as the capital of China during 11 dynasties, covering a period of 4,000 years. Known as Chang'an in those days, it was at the end of the Silk Road, which stretched for some 4,000 miles as the most important trade route between the Middle East and China, though it should be noted that there were several Silk "Routes." The first picture gives a view from atop the old city wall looking down the road to the Drum Tower (seen way in the distance) which is located in the center of the city. The second picture shows the thickness and height of the wall itself!