Ming Xiaoling tomb

The Ming Xiaoling, the mausoleum of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty in Nanjing, stands at the southern foot of Purple Mountain. Built from 1381 to 1405, it involved 100,000 laborers and was guarded by 5,000 troops. The mausoleum is renowned for its intricate design and vast scale, featuring the Da Jin Men, a giant stone tortoise, and the Sifangcheng pavilion. The Shengong Shengde Stele, inscribed by the Yongle Emperor, rests on the tortoise. The Sacred Way, an 1,800-meter road lined with animals and warrior figures, leads to the tomb, while the Lingxing Gate and central area showcase historical relics. Despite damage in the 19th century, it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emblematic of Ming and Qing imperial tombs.