Lanzhou history

The history of Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province, spans more than two millennia. Located in the very heart of China, it has played a role as a strategically vital point connecting different civilisations since ancient times.

Foundation and First Mentions

The first settlements in the territory of modern Lanzhou appeared as early as the Neolithic era. As a city, it began to take shape during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD), when a military post was established to protect trade routes. Initially, the city was known as Yunwu or Jincheng, which translates as "Golden City". According to one version, this name symbolised its impregnability and wealth. The city received its modern name, which can be translated as "Orchid Prefecture", later on.

Key Development Factors

Lanzhou owes its growth and prosperity to several key factors:

• Geographical Location: The city is situated in a narrow valley on the banks of the famous Yellow River (Huang He), often called the "cradle of Chinese civilisation". This location served as a natural corridor connecting the east and west of the country.

• Trade: Lanzhou was one of the most important hubs on the Silk Road. Caravans laden with silk, spices, and other goods passed through here, contributing to economic development and cultural exchange.

• Military and Political Role: For centuries, Lanzhou served as a vital military garrison and administrative centre that controlled strategic routes and protected the borders from raids by nomadic tribes.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of ancient Lanzhou was built on trade and agriculture, which flourished in the fertile valley of the Yellow River. The city's cultural life was incredibly rich. Thanks to its position at the crossroads of civilisations, Lanzhou became a place where different peoples and traditions met and mingled. It was through this region that new ideas and beliefs, including Buddhism, entered China.

Timeline of Lanzhou History

• 81 BC — The Han Dynasty establishes Jincheng County ("Golden City"), becoming an important military outpost and the predecessor of the modern city.

• 581 AD — During the Sui Dynasty, the city officially receives the name Lanzhou, which translates as "Prefecture of Orchids".

• 763 AD — The city temporarily falls under the control of the Tibetan Empire, highlighting its strategic importance on the border of civilisations.

• 1081 AD — The Song Dynasty regains control of the city, renaming it and strengthening it as a trade hub specialising in tea and horses.

• 1372 AD — Ming Dynasty General Feng Sheng occupies the city and begins the large-scale construction of brick defensive walls and gates.

• 1666 AD — Lanzhou becomes the administrative capital of the separate Gansu Province, significantly raising its political status in China.

• 1872 AD — Viceroy Zuo Zongtang establishes the Lanzhou Arsenal, marking the beginning of the introduction of Western industrial technologies in the region.

• 1909 AD — Construction of the Zhongshan Bridge is completed — the first permanent steel bridge across the Yellow River, replacing the ancient pontoon crossing.

• 1937 AD — With the outbreak of the War of Resistance, the city turns into a key transit hub for receiving international aid and military supplies.

• 1949 AD — In August, the city comes under the administration of the People's Liberation Army, beginning its transformation into a major industrial centre.

• 1953 AD — The Longhai Railway reaches Lanzhou, connecting the northwest region with ports on the east coast.

• 1958 AD — Launch of an oil refinery, which became one of the largest in Asia and defined the city's industrial profile for decades.

• 2012 AD — The State Council approves the creation of the Lanzhou New Area — a state-level zone for accelerated economic development.

• 2014 AD — Opening of the Lanzhou–Urumqi high-speed railway, significantly reducing travel time to Xinjiang.

• 2019 AD — Commissioning of the first metro line, the first in Gansu Province, marking a new stage in the modernisation of urban infrastructure.

Key Stages of Lanzhou's Development

Throughout its centuries-old history, Lanzhou has journeyed from a strategic post on the Silk Road to a modern industrial and transport metropolis. Key transformations have shaped its current appearance.

• Centre on the Silk Road (from 2nd Century BC). Initially founded as a military post, the city quickly became a vital commercial and cultural hub. Its location at the crossroads of caravan trails fostered economic prosperity and the exchange of ideas, particularly the entry of Buddhism into China.

• Achieving Provincial Capital Status (1666). Lanzhou was appointed the administrative centre of Gansu Province, which strengthened its political and strategic importance in the region. This contributed to the centralisation of governance and further development of the city.

• Construction of the Zhongshan Bridge (1909). The erection of the first permanent bridge across the turbulent Yellow River was a true engineering breakthrough and a symbol of modernisation. The bridge not only physically connected the northern and southern parts of the city but also became a vital transport artery.

• Transformation into a Transport Hub (1950s). The laying of the railway in 1953 and the subsequent construction of lines connecting Lanzhou with Beijing, Shanghai, and Urumqi turned the city into a key railway hub in northwest China. This provided a powerful impulse for industrial development.

• Industrialisation (Mid-20th Century). After the establishment of the PRC, Lanzhou became one of the centres of heavy industry. Large enterprises in oil refining, chemical industries, and mechanical engineering were established here, radically changing the city's economy.

• Scientific and Educational Centre. A branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and several major universities, including Lanzhou University and the Jiaotong University, were founded in the city. This turned Lanzhou into an important centre of science and workforce training for the entire northwest region.

• Participation in the "Belt and Road" Initiative (21st Century). Thanks to its historical heritage and modern logistics potential, Lanzhou plays a significant role in China's new global strategy. The city is becoming a key link in economic corridors connecting China with Central Asia and Europe, opening new prospects for its economic growth.

The architectural appearance of Lanzhou is a visual history of the city, reflecting its transformation from an ancient post on the Silk Road into a modern industrial metropolis. Here, traditional Chinese motifs, Soviet utilitarian heritage, and ultra-modern skyscrapers blend to create a unique and multi-layered urban landscape.

Traditional and Imperial Architecture

Historically, Lanzhou's urban planning followed the canons of Chinese architecture. The city, stretched along the Yellow River, was surrounded by defensive walls. The built environment was dominated by temple complexes and administrative buildings in the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Although many ancient wooden structures have not survived, their spirit lives on in places such as the White Pagoda Park (Baita), where a Yuan-era pagoda towers over the city. Another example of cultural fusion is the Xiguan Mosque, which combines traditional Chinese palace style with Islamic decorative elements, reflecting the region's significant Muslim heritage.

Era of Modernisation and Soviet Influence

The beginning of the 20th century marked the first steps towards modernisation. Its main symbol became the Zhongshan Bridge, built in 1909 by German engineers. This iron bridge became the first permanent bridge across the Yellow River and marked the arrival of Western technologies in the city. In the mid-20th century, after the establishment of the PRC, Lanzhou turned into a major centre of heavy industry. During this period, the city's architecture experienced strong Soviet influence: functional buildings in the style of socialist modernism, standard residential blocks for workers, and massive industrial complexes appeared, defining the look of many districts.

Modern Era: Postmodernism and High-Tech

From the late 20th century to the present day, Lanzhou has been experiencing a construction boom characteristic of all of China. The architectural landscape is changing rapidly, supplemented by impressive examples of modern architecture:

• Business Centres: Numerous glass and concrete skyscrapers have risen in the city centre, forming Lanzhou's new business skyline.
• New Districts: The Lanzhou New Area is actively developing — a modern urban district built from scratch and becoming the fifth such zone of national importance in China.
• Cultural Objects: Landmark buildings are appearing, such as the Lanzhou Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Its futuristic design, resembling a stone smoothed by the river, symbolises the connection between history and the future.
• Infrastructure: The city's development is supported by the creation of modern transport infrastructure, including the opening of the metro in 2019 and the expansion of the airport.

Today's Lanzhou is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples sit alongside industrial zones, and along the Yellow River embankment, next to historical monuments like the water wheels, modern architectural landmarks rise high.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Lanzhou

Throughout its rich history, the city of Lanzhou and Gansu Province have been the birthplace or place of activity for many outstanding individuals who left their mark on military history, art, science, and modern Chinese culture.

• Li Guang (approx. 184–119 BC) — General of the Han Dynasty. Nicknamed the "Flying General" for his courage and military prowess, Li Guang hailed from lands that are part of modern Gansu Province. He became famous for numerous campaigns against the nomadic Xiongnu people and became a legendary figure in Chinese history, symbolising valour and the defence of the empire's borders.

• Duan Huizong (approx. 83–12 BC) — General and Administrator of the Western Han Dynasty. A native of the region, he played a key role in governing the Western Regions (modern Central Asia). His activities helped strengthen the empire's control over the Silk Road, of which Lanzhou was a vital hub.

• Zhang Zhi (died approx. 192 AD) — Calligrapher of the Eastern Han Dynasty. Recognised as the "Sage of Cursive Script", Zhang Zhi revolutionised Chinese calligraphy by developing and perfecting the cursive style (Caoshu). Although born in another city in Gansu Province, his work is a crucial part of the entire region's cultural heritage.

• Godan Khan (1206–1251) — Mongol Prince, grandson of Genghis Khan. During the Mongol conquest, Godan ruled the territory that included modern Lanzhou. It was he who established historically important relations with Tibetan spiritual leaders, marking the beginning of the unique bond between Mongol rulers and Tibetan Buddhism.

• Zhu Zuohua (1920–2010) — Scientist-Geologist, Academician. One of the pioneers in the field of salt lake geology in China. He worked for a long time as a professor at Lanzhou University and made a huge contribution to the scientific development of the city and the study of natural resources in northwest China.

• Huang Xuan (born 1985) — Actor. Born in Lanzhou, Huang Xuan is one of the most popular and acclaimed actors of his generation in China. He is known for his roles in films such as "Youth" directed by Feng Xiaogang and "Legend of the Demon Cat" by Chen Kaige, and represents the modern cultural face of the city.