GAO FAMILY COURTYARD, XI'AN, CHINA


In Xi'an, China, in the Gao Family Courtyard, the wooden ceiling of the house is artistically painted. There is a Buddha statue in the Muslim house.


Connecting wall with a round thoroughfare between various portions of the Gao Family Courtyard in Xi'an, China.

Gao Family Courtyard (Gao’s Grand Courtyard) is a well-preserved Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) residential complex at No.144 Beiyuanmen Street in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter. In 4.2 acres, 86 rooms with a living area of 2,517 square meters, it features a traditional Chinese quadrangle layout with brick and wood structures. The Residence of Gao Yuesong, a scholar-official with the second highest rank in the reign of Emperor Chongzhen (1628–1644). This was a reward for his service. Seven generations of the Gao family served as officials. The complex showcases Guanzhong-style architecture, antique furniture, calligraphy, paintings, porcelain pottery, and cultural relics. The courtyard earned the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage Award in 2002. Shadow Puppet Show, a traditional folk art is shown.

 

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