The historic village of Xidi is known for its exceptional preservation of rural Anhui architecture and city planning during medieval China. The town was inscribed in the UNESCO list of world heritage sites in 2000.
Xidi is in the Anhui Province of eastern China.
Xidi was first founded during the Huangyou era (1049–1053), when it was known as Xichuan, which means 'West River'.
The growth of Xidi was closely tied to the fortunes of the influential Hu family. During the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) members of the Hu family had become important merchants and they had invested in both private construction and public infrastructure. By the 17th century the Hu family had expanded its influence into politics.
The town's properity peaked in the 18th and 19th centuries, but the disintegration of the feudal system in China and the decline of merchant communities across Anhui cause the expansion of Xidi to cease.
In Xidi, the original medieval street plan and water systems still exist. he streets are still paved with the original granite that emanates from Yi County. Most buildings in Xidi date from between the 14th and 19th centuries. Some of the most interesting ones include the 'Hall of Respect', the 'Hall of Reminiscence' and the 'Memorial Archway of the Governor'. Many of the buildings date from the Ming and Qing dynasties and boast beautiful carvings. Many are also open to the public.
Xidi is about 1000 km south from Beijing.
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