Jiayuguan Fort

The Jiayuguan Fort sits on top of Jiayu Hill, the highest place at the narrowest point of the middle section of the Hexi Corridor, which is hemmed in by high mountains on both sides.

About eight kilometers north of Jiayuguan is the Hanging Great Wall that connects the fort to the Mazong Mountains, and about six kilometers south of Jiayuguan are ruins of the First Beacon Tower. The Jiayuguan Fort, built in 1372 during the early Ming Dynasty, was China's major stronghold to the west. It was referred to as the "Impregnable Defile Under Heaven." 

The fort is surrounded by an inner and outer wall and further protected by trenches. The Jiayuguan Fort constituted a powerful defense in ancient times.

Jiayuguan Fort

Jiayuguan Fort