Sacred Way is the first sight in the Ming Tombs, as it is the main road leading to the thirteen tombs. It is composed of a stone memorial arch, Great Red Gate, stone statues and the Dragon and Phoenix Gate etc.
The Sacred Way is lined with stone statues which are important decorations of the mausoleum. These statues are usually 12 human figures and 24 animals, which are the lion, camel, elephant, xiezhi, qilin, and horse. There are four each of these animals: two standing and two squatting. Lions symbolize absolute solemnity. Camels and elephants stand for vast territory. The Xiezhi is used to ward off evil, and the Qilin is an auspicious symbol. Horses belong to the emperors, and are absolutely indispensable.
It is said that the Sacred Way means the way leading to Heaven, and is very auspicious, so it is a special experience for visitors to approach the Ming Tombs via the Sacred Way.
The Sacred Way is lined with stone statues which are important decorations of the mausoleum. These statues are usually 12 human figures and 24 animals, which are the lion, camel, elephant, xiezhi, qilin, and horse. There are four each of these animals: two standing and two squatting. Lions symbolize absolute solemnity. Camels and elephants stand for vast territory. The Xiezhi is used to ward off evil, and the Qilin is an auspicious symbol. Horses belong to the emperors, and are absolutely indispensable.
It is said that the Sacred Way means the way leading to Heaven, and is very auspicious, so it is a special experience for visitors to approach the Ming Tombs via the Sacred Way.