Beijing's Xicheng launches new round of historical vitalization

On Wednesday, the government of Beijing's Xicheng district announced the third round of vitalization projects for cultural heritage sites. This includes seven historical buildings destined for public use, including the Guandi Temple in Zhuanta hutong, Zhenwu Temple, Yongquan An, and the Wuyuan Guild Hall.

These sites, which are located in vibrant neighborhoods like Shichahai, Dashilar, and Financial Street, benefit from cultural and commercial resources and convenient transportation. Notably, the Zhenwu Temple and Yongquan An, alongside Desheng Bridge, are part of the significant historical cultural landscape of the Deshengmen area. The Guandi Temple in Zhuanta hutong, which is as one of Beijing's oldest alleys dating back over 700 years, retains its well-preserved courtyard layout.

The project will explore new paths for heritage vitalization by involving social forces in the renovation process. This approach encourages community investment in restoration, improving both the renovation process, and subsequent use.

Historically, Xicheng district is home to 372 immovable items of cultural heritage. The district has undertaken substantial efforts to reclaim and repurpose cultural properties, with 37 sites successfully vacated, and 18 undergoing renovations. This strategy seeks to create engaging public spaces that celebrate culture and promote community accessibility.

From the previous two rounds of vitalization projects, three sites are now open to the public, with one set to open soon.