Beijing served as the capital of three Chinese dynasties: the Yuan (1271-1368), the Ming (1368-1644) and the Qing (1644-1912). During these periods, several gates, gate towers, archways, watchtowers, and so on were built to fortify the city's defenses. However, in 1911 when the Qing Dynasty collapsed, most of the fortifications of Beijing were dismantled. Today, only a few of Beijing's earlier fortifications remain.  |