Fujian's earth homes added to list of the world's treasures

By Chen Qian  |   2008-7-8  |     NEWSPAPER EDITION

THE famous earth homes in Fujian Province have been added to the United Nations World Heritage list.

Known as "Tulou" in Chinese, 46 homes were added to the list during the 32nd Session of the World Heritage Committee in Quebec, Canada, on Sunday.

Built from the 11th to the 20th century in the mountainous areas across Fujian and neighboring provinces, the "Tulou" buildings could house a whole clan. They also served other functions such as defense.

The building usually consists of a rammed earth outer wall and internal wooden framework.

Its unique structural form and ingenious interior design highlight the interdependent relations between clan members who lived inside and demonstrate the development of their lifestyle.

"It is unique Chinese architecture. Its special design, defense system and history have attracted world attention," said Huang Hanmin, chief architect with the Fujian Institute of Architectural Design and Research.

The unique Chinese architecture can be traced back to the Song (960-1279) and Yuan (1271-1368) dynasties.

The design and architecture were upgraded in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), according to a report by Xinhuanet.com yesterday.

"Tulou" are mostly built with timber, cobble and soil. They are three to five stories high and usually house dozens of families.

They are usually enclosed and can be square, circular or oval-shaped with a thick earth wall reinforced with wood. They have only one entrance that is guarded by thick wooden doors reinforced with an outer shell of iron. The top level of the earth buildings has gun holes for defense against bandits, the report said.

There are about 3,000 "Tulou" left in Fujian Province. Most are found in Yongding and Nanjing counties and they are well preserved and protected, according to the report. One "Tulou" in Yongding County has 384 rooms and once housed more than 800 people.