Kowloon Walled City Park, Hongkong
The Kowloon Walled City Park occupies one of the most historic sites in the territory. Once strategically located at the north-eastern corner of the Kowloon peninsula and adjacent to what was to become Kowloon Bay, the site was used by imperial officials in the 15th century and was first fortified in 1668 when a signal station was established there.
About 1810, a small fort was built at the head of the beach which then adjoined the site. The importance of the area to China's maritime defences grew sharply following the British occupation of Hong Kong Island in 1841. Between 1843 and 1847 a walled garrison-city was constructed. Massive stone walls with six watchtowers and four gates enclosed the area, which measured about 6.5 acres.
The main discoveries were two carved granite plaques from the original South Gate, which had been the main entrance, one bearing the characters for “South Gate” and the other “Kowloon Walled City”.
The design of the park was inspired by the Jiangnan garden style of the early Qing Dynasty. Construction began in May 1994, with a work-force of skilled artisans from the Mainland being employed to ensure accurate reproduction of the classical concept.
The park covers 31,000 square metres and is divided into eight scenic zones with individual characteristics but blending into the overall design.
