The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is the longest wall ever built. It stretches for over 13,000 miles across northern China. That is longer than the distance from New York to Los Angeles and back! The wall was built over many centuries to protect China from invaders. It is one of the most amazing things humans have ever made.

Building the Wall

The Great Wall was not built all at once. Different rulers added to it over about 2,000 years. Millions of workers helped build the wall using stone, brick, and packed earth. Watchtowers were placed along the wall so guards could spot enemies far away. Workers used smoke signals and drums to send messages along the wall.

The Wall Today

Today, the Great Wall is one of the most visited landmarks in the world. Some parts have been repaired and are easy to walk on. Other parts are crumbling and overgrown with plants. The Chinese government works hard to protect and restore this incredible structure.

Fun Facts

• The Great Wall is wide enough for five horses to walk side by side on top.
• Sticky rice was mixed into the mortar to help hold the bricks together.
• About 10 million people visit the Great Wall every year.

Did You Know?

Despite what some people say, the Great Wall of China cannot be seen from space with the naked eye. It is very long but too narrow to spot from that far away.