Dali is a historical and cultural city in Yunnan Province, China, with a long history and rich cultural heritage. It was once the capital of Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom, and is now one of the first 24 historical and cultural cities in China.
The history of Dali can be traced back to the Neolithic Age, where the ancestors of minority ethnic groups such as the Bai and Yi lived and thrived. In 109 BC, the Western Han Dynasty established Yeyu County, marking the official inclusion of Dali into the territory of the Central Plains dynasty. During the Tang and Song dynasties, the Dali region successively established the Nanzhao Kingdom (738 AD) and the Dali Kingdom (937 AD), which lasted for more than 500 years and became the political, economic, and cultural center of Yunnan. After the Yuan Dynasty conquered the Dali Kingdom, Dali Prefecture was established during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and the ancient city layout has continued to this day.
Cultural characteristics
Multicultural Integration: Dali is the main settlement of the Bai ethnic group, and its culture integrates Central Plains Han culture, Tubo culture, and local ethnic traditions, forming a unique Bai culture, known as the "ancient capital of the crossroads of Asian culture".
Religious Art: Buddhism was prevalent during the Dali Kingdom period, and relics such as the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple and the Stone Treasure Mountain Grottoes showcase exquisite religious art. White script (block white script) and crafts such as wood carving and mural painting also have important value.
Important relics
Dali Old City: It was built in the 15th year of Hongwu in the Ming Dynasty (1382). It retains the chessboard layout of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It has landmark buildings such as the South Gate and Wuhua Tower, and is a national 4A scenic spot.
The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: Buddhist architecture from the Tang Dynasty, famous for its "Yongzhen Mountain and River" wall facing design, and is one of the landmarks of Dali.
The former site of the Yunnan Governor's Office: a military institution site from the Qing Dynasty, witnessing modern historical events in Yunnan.