Nanjing – One of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China

With over 6,000 years of history, Nanjing stands as one of China's Four Great Ancient Capitals, alongside Beijing, Luoyang, and Xi’an.

Nanjing, as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, is a city steeped in time-honoured history and radiant civilisation. It has long served as a political, cultural and economic hub in southern China. With evidence of human activity dating back 500,000 years, a city history of 2,500 years and a legacy of serving as the capital for 450 years, Nanjing has earned its titles as the "Capital of Six Dynasties" and the "Metropolis of Ten Reigns."

Since Eastern Wu established its capital here in 229 CE, Nanjing has been the seat of ten dynasties, cultivating a distinctive ancient capital culture. Known in antiquity as "Jinling," Nanjing was favoured by emperors for its strategic terrain and harmonious natural surroundings, which offered a steadfast foundation for the flourishing of the Chinese nation. This geographical and cultural significance places Nanjing in the illustrious company of Xi’an, Luoyang and Beijing as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals.

Nanjing's history as an ancient capital is not merely a testament to political dominance but a witness to the evolution and inheritance of Chinese civilization. Archaeological evidence shows that human activity in Nanjing dates back 1.2 million years and the discovery of the Tangshan hominid site further solidifies its role as a cradle of Chinese culture. Traces of the Nanjing Homo erectus, who lived here between 350,000 and 600,000 years ago, highlight the city’s deep-rooted heritage as a birthplace of civilisation.

Throughout history, Nanjing was the capital of six dynasties and ten regimes, including Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms period and the Song, Qi, Liang and Chen dynasties of the Southern Dynasties. These eras left an indelible cultural imprint on the city. During the Southern Dynasties, Nanjing emerged as the political and cultural center of the south, immortalised by poet Xie Tiao’s verse: “In the enchanting land of Jiangnan, Jinling is the imperial domain.” These lines vividly capture the splendour of Nanjing’s golden age.

The ancient capital's legacy is reflected not only in its historical gravitas but also in its enduring cultural treasures. The city is home to a wealth of historic landmarks, such as the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Confucius Temple and Yuejiang Tower. These sites bear witness to Nanjing’s resilience and glory through dynastic changes. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, particularly as the early capital of the Ming Dynasty, Nanjing laid the foundation for its modern cityscape. Today, remnants of imperial walls and palaces continue to evoke the grandeur of its past.

Beyond its tangible cultural heritage, Nanjing is renowned for its intangible cultural assets. The traditional craftsmanship of Nanjing Yun brocade and Jinling engraving has been preserved through the centuries, becoming integral parts of Chinese culture. These traditions are not only the pride of Nanjing, but also treasures of humanity.

Among the Four Great Ancient Capitals, Nanjing possesses a unique cultural essence. Xi’an, with its thirteen dynasties, is celebrated for the brilliance of its Qin and Han civilizations. Luoyang, as one of the earliest capitals, showcases the rich culture of the Yellow River Basin. Beijing, capital of the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, dazzles with its majestic imperial architecture. Nanjing, as the “Capital of Six Dynasties,” stands apart for its unbroken legacy of Han Chinese rule, free from the influence of foreign dynasties. This distinction imbues Nanjing with a special place in the national consciousness, as it often served as a refuge and a base for national revival during times of foreign invasion.

In summary, as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, Nanjing holds a singular place in history and culture. It is not only a political center of the south but also one of the cradles of Chinese civilisation. Weathering thousands of years of history, Nanjing retains its timeless charm as an ancient capital, continuing to contribute to the preservation and development of Chinese culture.