China: Drum Tower (Gulou), Beijing

The Drum (Gǔlóu) and Bell (Zhōnglóu) towers were originally built in 1272 during the reign of Kublai Khan (r.1260-1294). Emperor Yongle (r. 1402-1424) rebuilt the towers in 1420 and they were again renovated during the reign of Qing Emperor Jiaqing (r. 1796 - 1820).

Both the Drum and Bell towers were used as timekeepers during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia