An aerial view of the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, situated along the Beijing Central Axis. /CFP

The Beijing Central Axis is a line of historic and cultural landmarks that runs through the heart of the Chinese capital. Originating in the Yuan Dynasty, this axis extends 7.8 kilometers from Yongding Gate in the south to the Bell Tower and Drum Tower in the north.

A file photo shows the Yongding Gate at the southern end of the Beijing Central Axis. /CFP

While several individual attractions along the axis have already been recognized by UNESCO, the entire Central Axis is now pursuing World Heritage status. The World Heritage Committee will consider this nomination during its session from July 21 to 31 in New Delhi, India.

A file photo shows the Drum Tower at the northern end of the Beijing Central Axis. /CFP

Efforts to have the Beijing Central Axis designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site began in 2011. Since then, over 100 cultural heritage restoration projects have been carried out along the axis.

A file photo shows the Bell Tower at the northern end of the Beijing Central Axis. /CFP

For instance, restoration work on the Zhengyang Gate Arrow Tower, located at the southern part of the Central Axis, started in October 2020. The project meticulously adhered to the use of original materials, traditional forms, craftsmanship, and techniques employed in the original construction of the tower to maintain its historical authenticity.

A view of Zhengyang Gate along the Beijing Central Axis. /CFP

In early 2023, Beijing submitted the nomination dossier to the UNESCO World Heritage Center, aiming for a successful inscription at the 2024 session – 11 years ahead of the initial target date of 2035.

As a key cultural and historical symbol of Beijing, the Central Axis continues to draw tourists eager to explore its historic sites and learn about the city's rich heritage.