The Deshou Palace Ruins Museum in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the royal life of ancient China. Since its opening to the public in November 2022, this restored palace has become a popular destination for those eager to explore the splendor of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279).
Hangzhou, known as Lin'an during the Southern Song Dynasty, served as the dynasty's capital city. Deshou Palace, also known as the Palace of Morals and Longevity, was the retirement residence of two former emperors, Gaozong and Xiaozong, who abdicated in 1162 and 1189, respectively.
In 1206, the palace was devastated by a fire and subsequently fell into ruin. It wasn't until 1984 that archaeologists rediscovered the site, unearthing over 8,000 cultural artifacts. These discoveries include exquisite porcelain, calligraphy works, and structural elements such as foundations and drainage systems, shedding light on the architectural ingenuity of the time.
The museum's restoration follows the original layout of the Southern Song Dynasty's imperial city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the historical context of the era. Exhibitions showcase the daily lives of both emperors and common people, providing a comprehensive understanding of the society and culture of the time.
The centerpiece of the museum is Chonghua Hall, the main building of Deshou Palace, meticulously reconstructed based on historical records. The hall's remnants are considered the essence of the museum, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Modern digital technology enhances the visitor experience, offering immersive journeys back in time. Interactive installations replicate the original buildings alongside the preserved column bases, cornerstones, and wells. These digital reconstructions enable visitors to visualize the grandeur of the palace, appreciate its sophisticated craftsmanship, and glimpse the elegant lifestyles of its inhabitants during the Southern Song Dynasty.
Despite daily visitor limits set to protect the cultural relics, the museum has welcomed over 600,000 individual visits and more than 2,000 group visits in the past year. The popularity of the Deshou Palace Ruins Museum underscores the enduring fascination with China's rich history and cultural heritage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
