What Is The Great Wall of China Made Of?
The earlier sections of the wall, constructed from the Spring & Autumn Period and Warring States Period through the Jin Dynasty of Northern China & Mongolia (1125-1234, in existence at the same time as the Southern Song Dynasty), were made of whatever materials were available locally, often just dirt and rammed between boards in four inch layers, or loose stones stacked on top of each other, slightly molded to fit.¹
(original photo by Parts of the Han Dynasty (206BC - 220AC) Great Wall was made of packed fine gravel (first wet and then packed for greater density) reinforced by willow reeds.²
The Great Wall as we imagine it today was built during the Ming Dynasty, and was made of bricks, tiles, lime, and stone. Cut stones formed the foundation, outside portions of the wall, and gates, with bricks used on the inside, as stone could hold weight better and more effectively fend off any assault against the wall.¹
All About The Great Wall of China
- History of The Great Wall of China - A history of the Great Wall of China
- Facts About The Great Wall of China - Frequently asked questions & other facts about the Great Wall of China
- Great Wall of China Map - Maps of the Great Wall of China
- Pictures of The Great Wall of China - Assorted pictures of the Great Wall of China
- Great Wall of China Resources - Strongly recommended articles about the Great Wall of China
