Yuanmingyuan research center opens at CAU, Beijing

A center for researching Yuanmingyuan has been established at the China Agricultural University in Beijing.

Yuanmingyuan, also known as the Old Summer Palace, was a resort for Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) emperors in the early 18th century, until it was sacked and burnt by invading Anglo-French forces in 1860. Covering an area of about 350 hectares, it was considered to be the greatest example of ancient Chinese gardens.

The new institution will combine expertise from the university's college of water resources and civil engineering and college of horticulture. It will provide in-depth studies on the landscape gardening, vegetation and water ecology in Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park. The project will help to improve the maintenance of the sites historical heritage and natural environment.

Both sides will exchange personnel, share information, and employ a joint training program to improve the preservation of the Yuanmingyuan Ruins as a national-level monument and a place to promote patriotism.