Built by the Qianlong emperor and his successors throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries, Yuanming Yuan showcased modern European technology, from clocks to French architecture, and was known for its extensive collection of gardens, its building architecture and numerous art and historical treasures. One purpose was to introduce to the Chinese intelligentsia these new ideas so they could be adapted and applied in China. To be sure, the adaptations would be in the context of the existing political structure, but it was a powerful statement of China’s openness to European developments.
(July 22): It is midsummer in Beijing and the clear, blue skies are enough to entice people to visit the city’s many landmarks and public parks. Some seek the coolness of the Xiangshan hills or the waterways and gardens around the Summer Palace, or perhaps venture into the countryside and visit the Ming Tombs, where it might be a little cooler. Others visit the lesser-known Yuanming Yuan ruins, also called the Old Summer Palace.
The Yuanming Yuan palace had no military significance, but was blown up in what some describe as a fit of spite by the Western powers in 1860. On the orders of Lord Elgin, it took 4,000 men three days to destroy it. Many exquisite artworks — sculptures, porcelain, jade, silk robes, elaborate textiles, gold objects and more — were looted and are now found in 47 museums around the world.
