Nanjing City Wall, with its rich history and imposing presence, has long been the subject of fascinating folk tales and legends. These stories capture the essence of the city’s heritage, its fortifications, and the significant events that unfolded within its protective embrace. Here are some notable folk tales about the Nanjing City Wall, offering a glimpse into the intriguing folklore that surrounds this magnificent structure.
The Unyielding Guardian:
According to legend, during the construction of the Nanjing City Wall, a mysterious old man appeared, offering his assistance. With his extraordinary strength and expert craftsmanship, he played a crucial role in fortifying the wall, ensuring its resilience and endurance. Rumors circulated that the old man possessed supernatural powers and was, in fact, a guardian spirit sent to protect the city from harm. To this day, locals believe that the spirit of the old man still watches over the wall, preserving its strength and safeguarding Nanjing.
The Ghostly Encounter:
In the depths of the night, when the moon casts an eerie glow over the city, tales emerge of encounters with spirits along the Nanjing City Wall. Locals recount spine-chilling experiences of hearing whispers and seeing shadowy figures walking atop the fortifications. These spectral apparitions are believed to be the restless souls of fallen soldiers who perished defending the city during historic battles. The stories serve as a reminder of the valor and sacrifice of those who fought to protect Nanjing.
The Echoing Drum:
One of the most enduring legends associated with the Nanjing City Wall revolves around the Echoing Drum Tower. According to the tale, the drum beats from this tower possess supernatural powers that can summon rain during times of drought. It is said that when the city faced a severe water shortage, the sound of the drums reverberated throughout Nanjing, beckoning the rain clouds to gather and relieve the parched land. Locals continue to honor this legend by performing rituals and ceremonies at the Drum Tower during periods of drought, hoping to invoke the rain-bringing power of the drums.
The Stolen Bricks:
Legend has it that during the construction of the city wall, a mischievous thief named Lu Ban managed to steal bricks from the workers unnoticed. However, the stolen bricks miraculously returned to their original positions every night. Puzzled by this phenomenon, the workers suspected supernatural intervention and sought divine guidance. A local sage revealed that the bricks were protected by the spirit of Lu Ban, a legendary figure in Chinese architecture. The sage advised the workers to offer prayers and respect to Lu Ban, after which the stolen bricks ceased to vanish. To honor this tale, a statue of Lu Ban was erected near the city wall, and locals pay homage to him, seeking his blessings for successful construction endeavors.
The Undying Love:
This poignant legend tells the story of a young couple separated by the chaos of war. The man was conscripted into the army, leaving his beloved behind within the protective confines of the Nanjing City Wall. During his absence, the woman faithfully waited atop the wall every day, hoping for her lover’s return. Tragically, he lost his life in battle, but his spirit returned to Nanjing. The legend says that on moonlit nights, the ghostly figure of the young man can still be seen walking along the city wall, searching for his lost love. It is said that their spirits reunited in eternity, forever bound by their undying love.
These captivating folk tales and legends add an extra layer of mystique and intrigue to the Nanjing City Wall, painting a vivid picture of its historical significance and the cultural beliefs of the local population. They serve as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the deep connection between folklore and the landmarks that shape a city’s identity.