Liaocheng, known in ancient times as Dongchang, was designated as a National Historical and Cultural City by the State Council in 1994. With a history spanning over 2,500 years, the city is home to 427 cultural heritage sites at various levels, including 13 national-level, 79 provincial-level, and 150 municipal-level protected sites, along with 172 historic buildings.

From the Neolithic Jingyanggang Site to the tomb of Cao Zhi during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280), and from Guangyue Tower of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) to the Shanxi-Shaanxi Hall during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), history has left vivid marks at every turn.

What makes Liaocheng truly unique is its position where the Yellow River culture and the Grand Canal culture converge. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the city thrived for over 400 years on the prosperity of the Grand Canal. The waterway brought not only commercial wealth but also timeless architectural treasures.

Ready to soak up the saturated hues of Liaocheng's ancient charm? Let's take a closer look.

Guangyue Tower, built in 1374, stands firm in the heart of Liaocheng's ancient city. Over 650 years later, its main structure remains untouched — a feat few towers can claim. [Photo/WeChat account: sdta12301]

Designated as a provincial heritage site in 1977, the Shanxi-Shaanxi Hall wins national-level protection status from the State Council in 1988. [Photo/WeChat account: sdta12301]

Standing by the Grand Canal for nearly a millennium, the Ancient Iron Pagoda of Liaocheng is the city's oldest surviving above-ground structure, centuries older than Guangyue Tower. [Photo/WeChat account: sdta12301]