The Deshou Palace Ruins Museum in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, has been captivating visitors since its restoration and opening to the public in November 2022. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the royal life of ancient China, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Once known as Lin'an, Hangzhou was the capital city of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). Deshou Palace, also known as the Palace of Morals and Longevity, served as a retreat for two former emperors, Gaozong and Xiaozong, after they abdicated the throne in 1162 and 1189 respectively. However, the palace met its demise when it was destroyed by fire in 1206, leaving the site in ruins until its rediscovery by archaeologists in 1984.
Since the discovery, more than 8,000 cultural artifacts have been unearthed at the site, including exquisite porcelain pieces, intricate calligraphy works, and structural elements like foundations and drainage systems. These findings have paved the way for a comprehensive restoration that mirrors the layout of the Southern Song Dynasty imperial city.
At the heart of the museum lies Chonghua Hall, the main building that has been meticulously reconstructed based on historical records. This hall stands as the essence of the museum, offering a tangible connection to the past. The museum's exhibitions delve into the everyday lives of both emperors and ordinary people during the dynasty, providing a well-rounded perspective of the era.
Embracing modern technology, the Deshou Palace Museum enhances the visitor experience with digital installations that allow guests to "travel" back in time. These interactive displays recreate the original structures, enabling visitors to appreciate the scale, beauty, and craftsmanship of the ancient palace. The seamless blend of physical remnants like column bases and ceremonial wells with digital reconstructions brings history to life in a dynamic and engaging way.
Despite measures to limit daily visitor numbers in order to protect the cultural relics, the museum has seen impressive attendance, with over 600,000 individual visitors and more than 2,000 group visits in the past year alone. This surge in interest highlights the museum's role as a bridge between the past and the present, fostering a deeper understanding of China's rich cultural heritage.
Whether you're a young global citizen eager to explore historical sites, a business and tech enthusiast fascinated by the integration of digital technology in museums, or a traveler seeking immersive cultural experiences, the Deshou Palace Ruins Museum in Hangzhou offers a compelling journey into ancient royal life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
