Preserving history

China has an abundance of World Heritage sites, and making sure they are kept in good condition for future generations is no simple task, as Wang Kaihao reports from Gansu and Shaanxi.

For Xie Yanming who heads a team of about 10 people guarding the ruins of Suoyang City in the Gobi Desert, it is an unbelievable honor to have their work brought to international attention. Located in Guazhou county in the far west of Gansu province, the ancient earthen castle dating back to the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907) was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in June, together with 32 other historical sites on the Silk Road, a legendry Eurasian cultural communication and trade route.

"After spending nervous days preparing and waiting, we can finally get a good night's sleep," Xie says. "However, it may be for only one night."