In 2007, after a public competition, the list of the new seven wonders of the modern world was announced: the Colosseum (Italy), Chichen Itza (Mexico), Christ the Redeemer (Brazil), Machu Picchu (Peru), Petra (Jordan), the Taj Mahal (India) and the Great Wall of China (China)
The artistic and cultural value of these constructions is undeniable. However, a recent discovery has cast doubt on the origin of one of them. More specifically, we are referring to the ancient Chinese fortification. For a long time, it was thought that the Great Wall was the only human construction visible from space. A theory that has been debunked on more than one occasion
What we know about the Great Wall is that it was built and rebuilt between the 5th century BC and the 16th century and served to protect against attacks by the Xiongnu nomads from Mongolia and Manchuria. It is impressive: it measures more than 21,000 kilometers, although only 30% of the original fortification remains. In 1987, it was declared a World Heritage Site
Doubts about the true origin of the Great Wall of China
Science and its different branches, with their discoveries, help to understand and try to explain many things that have to do with human beings. Some of its findings also cast doubt on and question theories that have been disseminated and transmitted for many years
Among them, there is a recent archaeological discovery that has cast doubt on the way the Great Wall was built and the real reason why it was erected. Apparently,the main objective was to protect the Chinese Empire. However, according to an article published in the Cambridge University journal, this was not the case
As the report states, “China’s long walls and the Eurasian steppe have functioned as defensive structures against aggressive nomadic tribes, or as elements to control the movement of local nomadic groups after imperialist expansion. (…) The wall has numerous ancillary structures that hint at its function.”
According to the article, in addition to its defensive use, the Great Wall also served other possible functions, including helping some shepherds and farmers who occupied these areas in their tasks. In other words, it was a support for livestock farming and the primary sector.