subject: Beijing Underground City- A Fortress Beneath The Ground [print this page] The Underground City of Beijing was built in the 1970s as a bomb shelter which was designed to protect lives in case of a nuclear attack on the city. As there had been a suspicion among leaders of the country about a nuclear attack by the Russians at the time, this underground complex was constructed immediately under orders given by Chairman Mao himself. Situated directly underneath the city of Beijing, this complex is a fortress designed to be invincible. Consisting in excess of over a thousand anti-air-raid enclosures, this underground mini city took approximately 10 years to complete.
An estimated 300,000 locals were involved in the construction process which covers nearly 85 square kilometers. The tunnel system which connects all the sections of the underground city is 30 kilometers long in total. In order to ensure that minimum or no damage is afflicted to the walls of the structure in the event of an air strike, the city is buried eighteen meters below ground level. According to expert assessments this facility had the capacity to hold up to 40% of Beijings population. Complete with clinics and even schools this underground city was equipped and ready for the worst.
After being declared a tourist attraction in 2000, the Underground City has transformed gradually and is now home to restaurants and hotels. 90 entry points to the Underground City can be found in various parts of the city which are mostly accessible through boutiques and shops. As you walk along the narrow tunnels of the facility you will see several signs and maps directing the way around the city. Most of these signs have not been changed since they were put up immediately after construction was completed.
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