Why is Nanjing called Stone City (historical origins and legends)

Nanjing, this ancient and beautiful city, has a fascinating title-Stone City. This title does not come out of thin air, but has deep historical origins and legends. In this article, we will explore why Nanjing is called Stone City and reveal the historical stories and legends.

1. Historical origins

Nanjing, as early as the Neolithic Age more than 3,000 years ago, humans have been thriving on this land. The reason why Nanjing is named Stone City is closely related to its geographical environment. Nanjing is located in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The terrain is relatively flat, but it is surrounded by mountains and rivers. The geological structure of this land is dominated by rocks, especially the Purple Mountain, which is one of the reasons why Nanjing is named Stone City.

Purple Mountain is one of the landmarks of Nanjing. Its steep mountains and rugged rocks give people an impression of solidity and determination. The city of Nanjing has also been given the symbol of being as solid as a stone because of the existence of the Purple Mountain. In addition, there are many rock landscapes in Nanjing, such as Yuhuatai, Zhanyuan, etc. These rock landscapes have also become symbols of Nanjing Stone City.

2. Historical Stories

The historical story of Nanjing being called Stone City can be traced back to ancient times. In the long history of Nanjing, many major events have occurred, and these events are closely related to the title of Nanjing's Stone City.

As the capital of ancient China, Nanjing was once the capital of the Six Dynasties period. This period of history has brought countless glory and splendor to Nanjing. However, Nanjing has also suffered countless baptisms of war. The most famous one is that after Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, established his capital in Nanjing, he built a series of city walls and palaces in order to consolidate his dominance. These city walls and palaces were built of stone, so Nanjing is also known as Stone City.

In the history of Nanjing, there is another story related to the title of Stone City, that is the legendary story of Zhu Di, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. During Zhu Di's reign, Nanjing became the capital of the Ming Dynasty. In order to show his authority and majesty, he ordered the construction of a huge palace, the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. A large number of stones were used in the construction of Xiaoling Mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty, so Nanjing also got the title of Stone City.

3. Legends and Folktales

In addition to historical origins and historical stories, the title of Nanjing Stone City is also related to some legends and folktales. These legends and stories enrich the cultural connotation of Nanjing and add a sense of mystery to the city.

There is a legend that there is a huge gem buried deep underground in Nanjing. The energy emitted by this gem fills Nanjing with the smell of stone. Although this legend has no conclusive evidence, it adds a touch of mystery to the title of Nanjing's Stone City.

In addition, there is a folk tale related to Stone City in Nanjing, which is about the stone lion.legend. According to legend, in an ancient temple in Nanjing, there is a pair of stone lions that protect the city's tranquility and prosperity. This pair of stone lions has become the symbol of Nanjing Stone City and the patron saint of Nanjing people.

4. The significance of Nanjing Stone City

Nanjing is called Stone City not only because of its geographical environment and historical origins, but also because this title represents the tenacity and perseverance of the Nanjing people. courage. The city of Nanjing has experienced countless wars and disasters, but it has been able to rise again every time, showing a willpower as strong as stone.

The title of Nanjing Stone City has also become one of the symbols of the city, which represents the pride and confidence of the Nanjing people. As one of the four ancient capitals of China, Nanjing has a long history and rich cultural heritage, which are reflected in the title of Nanjing Stone City.

To sum up, Nanjing is called Stone City because of its geographical environment and historical origins, as well as the related historical stories, legends and folktales. This title represents the courage and tenacity of the Nanjing people and has become one of the symbols of Nanjing. Whether it is the vicissitudes of history or the mystery of legends, the city of Nanjing is full of unique charm. Let’s walk into Nanjing Stone City together and experience the history and culture of this city.