The Grand Water Feature of the Old Summer Palace

The Grand Water Feature of the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) is one of its most famous structures, located at the center of the Western Mansions area. It was a masterpiece of architecture combining Chinese and Western elements, integrating traditional Chinese garden art with Western Baroque architectural style. Originally, the Dashuifa was a magnificent water feature with large-scale fountains and intricate sculptures. Water would cascade down from the top of the building through a sophisticated system of pipes, creating a grand spectacle.

The design of the Dashuifa reflects the cultural exchanges between East and West during the Qing Dynasty. It was designed and constructed with the involvement of Giuseppe Castiglione, an Italian missionary and architect. The main structure featured European-style arches, with rows of stone columns on either side, topped with ornate carvings and statues. In front was the fountain system, where water flowed through various levels and devices, creating a beautiful water display.

However, the Dashuifa was destroyed in 1860 during the Second Opium War by British and French forces. Today, only the ruins of the structure remain, but these remnants stand as a lasting symbol of both the former glory and humiliation of that period in Chinese history. The ruins of the Old Summer Palace are preserved in the Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park as a witness to history, reminding visitors of the past and prompting reflection.