Xiaoling Mausoleum is one of the main memorial complexes in Nanjing, including not only the tombs in which the Ming and Qing dynasties are buried, but also a unique combination of ancient architecture and Chinese architectural traditions. Literally, the name of the mausoleum translates as "Ming Tomb of Honouring Parents". Indeed, most of the burials belong to the dynasty of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, who began his reign in the 14th century. The emperor was close to the idea of eternal life and imperishable existence after death. Therefore, throughout his reign, he periodically erected a mausoleum for his relatives and close entourage.
Construction of Xiaolin Zhu Yuanzhang began in 1381, choosing a place on Mount Tszyjinshan in accordance with all the rules of feng shui. The emperor used prisoners as his construction force, who completed the mausoleum in 1413. After his death, Zhu Yuanzhang was buried in Xiaoling, and Emperor Yongle, who took his place, completed the architectural ensemble with an original stele made of a single stone. The sculpture was dedicated to the emperor's father and is still considered the tallest in Nanjing.
Today, the mausoleum is located on a sliver of Mount Zijinshan in close proximity to the historical part of Nanjing. Numerous buildings of the complex and a variety of statues are located on a vast area of 116 hectares. Tourists are most attracted by the monumental arches and the Golden Gate, as well as the original statue of a bishi turtle, on the back of which there is a stele depicting intertwined dragons. An inscription can be seen on each tomb telling the story of who is buried there.
