General Tower of Simatai Great Wall (2021-04-05) by Wu QiangSimatai Great Wall
Where is it?
The 12th East Tower is also known as the “General Tower”. As one of the most beautifully constructed beacon towers in the Simatai Great Wall section with a wide view from the cliff side.
It is said to be the place where the general commanded the battles, and the key position to communicate with the watchtowers to transmit information.
General Tower of Simatai Great Wall (2021-04-05) by Wu QiangSimatai Great Wall
Its Structure
The workmanship of the General Tower is exquisite: the lower part with stone strips closely together, and the upper part with the grinding brick to the top; the interior of the tower is built with bricks into two large arches, forming three channels and ten arched gates; the top of the central room is octagonal algae roof like the army tent.
General Tower of Simatai Great Wall (2021-04-05) by Wu QiangSimatai Great Wall
The place close to the arrow window is added with horizontal small cylinder arches, like today's elaborately-designed curtain groove; a long corridor inside the tower gave much space for the general.
The Details
Two lotus flowers are carved on the stone pillars at the door of the tower, showing the importance of the General Tower, since ordinary towers don't have carved patterns on them.
General Tower, 12th floor of the east section of Simatai Great Wall (2020-11-09) by Wu QiangSimatai Great Wall
Surrounded by Barricade Walls
The junction of the General Tower is a high barricade wall, making it an excellent defensive place. This delicately-built tower looks like a fairyland pavilion in the mist.
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