Keeping city memories

Only when the memories of a city survive generations of its residents will it be possible to have cultural appeal. Historical buildings are physical reminders of these memories. The demolition of historical structures in a city is equivalent to the elimination of its memories.

An old courtyard once inhabited by Lu Xun, one of the most well-known novelist and essayist in the early years of the last century, is slated to be demolished. This has riled up many, who have been complaining that Beijing is losing its cultural appeal due to the rapid loss of its ancient structures.

As the capital of the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1644), Beijing is a city of historical interest. And thanks to the series of political activities that took place in the early parts of the last century, Beijing is the birthplace of the May Fourth movement. As a result, the city boasts a multitude of courtyards and residences previously inhabited by historical figures or social celebrities.