Beijing Hutong Conservation Plan - Tibet Heritage Fund

Zhong-Gulou area (Bell and Drum tower area)
The Gulou area, centred on the famous Drum and Bell towers, is one
of Beijing’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. It is located at the
northern end of the axis that runs North-South, through the centre of
the Imperial Palace complex. Originally built in the 13 th century, the
towers were used throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties to sound
out the progress of time. The ringing of the bell and beating of the
drum informed citizens of the time of day and also indicated the
specific days of the lunar calendar. The towers are now museums
recognised as important historic monuments. Today, the two towers
stand at either end of a small square surrounded by old residential
courtyard houses. The square is a popular recreation area for local
residents, both young and old. An important feature of the Gulou
area is the integration of historic monuments within a vibrant
residential area. Plans to replace residential buildings with a parking
lot for tourist busses are akin to killing the goose that lays the golden
egg. A view of a car park from the two towers would hardly rate as
a tourist attraction.
The survey focussed on 16 courtyards that face the small public
square between the towers.
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