Both the people and the soldiers of China were instrumental in the building of The Great Wall. At first it was treated as an expense most could do without, unfortunately the enemy made it even more costly not to build. The truth is that without the wall the Chinese may have well been in battle for an eternity. The wall provided many years of peace and tranquility for the people of China.

Could anyone be in any doubt to the sheer excellence of this wall. The view in the mist is hauntlingly beautiful, and the pleasure it provided by its breath taking views continues to this day.

The parapets can be seen along the wall, and these were where the soldiers would defend against attack. The bravery of the enemy was never in any doubt, and a fallen enemy having managed to even reach the wall, was regarded as a hero. Indeed any decision to attack, would never be decided lightly, and the attackers were well prepared to die, in their pursuit.

There's almost a great saddness when observing parts of the wall lying in ruin. However, I believe these parts will be again restored at some later date. The pride the Chinese feel for The Great Wall is well established. This section is from the Ming Dynasty, and still survives the ravages of time.

Almost looking like some stately mansion with a large driveway, this part of the wall is so breathtakingly beautiful. History at its very best, where the past meets the present.