The ancient city wall in Xi’an, China, has undergone a remarkable transformation in the preservation of its historical significance and the innovation of tourism products, all thanks to advancements in technology.
Situated at the heart of Xi’an, the city wall, which dates back over 600 years, has become a major attraction for tourists. However, over the years, the wall has encountered structural challenges, such as cracks and outward bulging in certain areas. In response to these challenges, conservation experts have turned to advanced technologies for solutions.
To address the uneven settlement, over 3,000 monitoring spots have been established along the 13.74 km circumference of the city wall, tracking settlement and horizontal displacements. Furthermore, more than 1,000 cameras have been deployed in the scenic area to monitor real-time changes in visitor flow and other aspects.
The integration of technology has shifted the focus from reactive repairs to proactive damage monitoring and prevention, empowering experts to make informed decisions based on accurate data. In 2023, muon imaging technology was utilised to conduct a “physical examination” of the wall, allowing for high-precision scanning of its interior without causing any harm.
Additionally, there has been an increase in digital tourism products to enrich the visitor experience. Tourists can now utilise a mobile app to learn about the history of the city wall and explore its various attractions. Moreover, a digital sand table above the south gate offers a visual representation of Chang’an City during the Tang Dynasty. For those unable to visit in person, a digital museum provides an immersive virtual tour of archaeological research-themed exhibits.
These innovations have proven to be popular among visitors, with over 8.5 million individuals visiting the city wall scenic area in 2023. Furthermore, the city is aligned with China’s national cultural digitisation strategy, with plans to strengthen collaboration with universities and enterprises for the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage and tourism offerings.
The evolution of technology in the preservation and promotion of the Xi’an City Wall stands as a testament to the power of innovation in preserving historical landmarks while enhancing the tourist experience. Looking ahead, it is clear that the intersection of technology and cultural heritage will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of tourism and preservation efforts in China.
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