Liuzhou history

The history of Liuzhou spans over two millennia, during which it has transformed from a small settlement into an important administrative and industrial centre in southern China. The city, situated on the picturesque banks of the Liujiang River, is known not only for its economic significance but also for its rich cultural heritage, closely linked to the names of great figures in Chinese history.

Foundation and Early Period

The first settlement on the site of modern Liuzhou was founded in 111 BC during the Han Dynasty. It was originally named Tanzhong. However, it received its current name, meaning "Prefecture of Willows", much later, in 634 AD, during the reign of the Tang Dynasty. It was during this period that Liuzhou began to take shape as a significant administrative centre of the region.

Key Factors of Development

The formation and growth of Liuzhou were driven by several key factors:

• Geographical Location: Its location on the Liujiang River made the city an important transport and trade hub. The river provided connections with other regions, facilitating the development of commerce.
• Administrative Role: For centuries, Liuzhou served as the centre of various administrative units, from a prefecture (zhou) to a commandery (fu). This attracted officials, scholars, and artisans to the city.
• Influence of Liu Zongyuan: A tremendous contribution to the city's development was made by the poet and philosopher Liu Zongyuan, who was exiled here in the 9th century. During his stay, he initiated the construction of public facilities, promoted education, and developed agriculture, leaving a deep imprint on the city's culture.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Since ancient times, Liuzhou has been known as a centre of crafts and trade. It gained particular fame for the production of coffins made from precious camphor wood, which were in demand throughout the empire due to their quality. The city was also an important centre for timber and the paper industry. Culturally, the legacy of Liu Zongyuan became defining: a temple was erected in his honour, and his literary works and reformist activities became an integral part of Liuzhou's historical memory.

Key Dates in the History of Liuzhou

Liuzhou's history, spanning more than two thousand years, is full of events that transformed it from a frontier post into a modern industrial metropolis. Here are some of the key moments in its rich and long history.

• 111 BC — Tanzhong County was founded on this site during the Han Dynasty, marking the starting point in the city's history.
• 634 AD — During the Tang Dynasty, the region was renamed Liuzhou ("Prefecture of Willows"), and this name has survived through the centuries to the present day.
• 815–819 — The renowned poet and reformer Liu Zongyuan was exiled to Liuzhou; his activities had a huge influence on the cultural and social development of the city.
• 1277 — After the Mongol conquest, during the Yuan Dynasty, the administrative unit was transformed into the "Liuzhou Circuit", consolidating its status in the new empire.
• 1368 — With the rise of the Ming Dynasty, the Liuzhou Prefecture was established, although for a long time the city remained primarily a frontier trade and garrison point.
• 17th Century — This period saw the beginning of active settlement of the region by Han Chinese, which gradually changed its ethnic and cultural landscape.
• 1912 — After the Xinhai Revolution and the fall of the Qing Empire, the old prefecture system was abolished, leading to the disbandment of the Liuzhou Prefecture.
• 1929 — The largest mechanical plant in Guangxi province at the time was built in the city, laying the foundation for Liuzhou's future industrial growth.
• After 1949 — The city entered an era of rapid industrialisation, transforming from a small town into one of the most important industrial centres in southern China.
• 2012 — The Liuzhou Industrial Museum opened, symbolising its heritage and modern status as the industrial heart of the region.

The history of Liuzhou spans over two millennia, during which the city has journeyed from a small county centre to one of the most important industrial giants in southern China. Located on the banks of the picturesque Liujiang River, it is known not only for its economic achievements but also for its rich cultural heritage.

Key Milestones in Liuzhou's History

• Foundation in the Han Dynasty Era (111 BC). The first settlement, known as Tanzhong, was founded as the administrative centre of the county. This period laid the foundation for the city's future development as an important point on the regional map.
• Naming and Cultural Flourishing (Tang Dynasty, 634 AD). The city received its current name "Liuzhou", which means "Prefecture of Willows". A turning point was the exile here in the 9th century of the outstanding poet and statesman Liu Zongyuan. He implemented important reforms: organising the digging of wells, building public structures, and engaging in education, forever inscribing his name in the history and culture of the city.
• Trade and Craft Centre (Ming and Qing Dynasties). Thanks to its strategic position on the Liu River, the city strengthened its position as an important transport and trade hub. During this period, Liuzhou became famous throughout the empire for the production of high-quality goods, particularly coffins made of precious camphor wood.
• Beginning of Industrialisation (1920s–1930s). In 1929, the largest mechanical plant in Guangxi province at the time was built in Liuzhou, marking the beginning of the city's transformation into an industrial centre. This step became the foundation for future industrial breakthroughs.
• Transformation into an "Automobile Capital" (Second half of the 20th – early 21st century). After World War II, the city began to develop rapidly as a centre of heavy industry. Today, Liuzhou is one of the largest automotive centres in China. It hosts the factories of giants such as SAIC-GM-Wuling and Dongfeng, producing millions of vehicles annually.
• Modern Urban Planning and Tourism Development. In recent decades, the city has been actively transforming: new bridges are being built, park zones are being created, such as the famous Longtan Park with its karst landscapes, and museums are opening, for example, the Liuzhou Industrial Museum and the Stone Museum. This attracts tourists wishing to experience the unique combination of industrial power and natural beauty.

The architectural appearance of Liuzhou presents a striking contrast between the heritage of traditional China, the functional buildings of the 20th-century industrial era, and the bold futuristic projects of modern times. The city, threaded by the Liujiang River, demonstrates how urban planning has adapted to economic realities and new environmental challenges.

Historical Buildings and Traditional Motifs

Despite rapid modernisation, elements of traditional Chinese architecture have been preserved in Liuzhou. They are mainly represented by temple complexes and individual historical structures. In parks, such as Liuhou Park, one can see pavilions, towers, and bridges executed in a classical style with curved roofs and wooden structures. One of the iconic landmarks is the East Gate Tower, recreated on a historical site and symbolising ancient city fortifications. Also in the vicinity of the city, one can find unique "Wind and Rain Bridges", characteristic of the Dong people, for example, the Chengyang Bridge, built in 1916 without a single nail and representing an outstanding example of traditional wooden architecture.

Industrial and Modern Architecture

In the 20th century, especially after 1949, Liuzhou actively developed as an industrial centre. This period left a legacy of functional Soviet and modernist buildings—factory buildings, residential quarters for workers, and administrative buildings. However, the real architectural boom occurred in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

• City of Bridges: The city's location on the Liujiang River necessitated the construction of numerous bridges, which have become the calling card of Liuzhou. Today there are more than two dozen of them, and each has its own unique design—from simple beam structures to impressive cable-stayed and arched systems, which look particularly spectacular with night lighting.
• Modern Skyscrapers and Public Buildings: The urban landscape today is defined by modern skyscrapers, office centres, and public spaces, such as the Liuzhou Industrial Museum and the Liuzhou Sports Centre. Their appearance is dominated by glass, steel, and concrete, reflecting the city's status as an economic and business hub.

Futuristic Projects and "Green" Urban Planning

The most ambitious and globally renowned architectural project in Liuzhou is the "Liuzhou Forest City", designed by Italian architect Stefano Boeri. This innovative project involves the creation of an entire urban district where the facades of all buildings—from residential homes to offices and schools—will be completely covered with trees and plants. The main goal of the project is to combat air pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, as well as integrating nature into the urban environment. This project symbolises Liuzhou's transition to a new model of sustainable and environmentally responsible development, shaping a unique architectural vision of the future.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Liuzhou

Throughout its long history, Liuzhou has been the home or place of activity for many outstanding individuals who have left a significant mark on the culture and history not only of the city but of all China.

• Liu Zongyuan (773–819 AD)

  An outstanding poet, philosopher, and statesman of the Tang era. Exiled to Liuzhou to serve as governor, he implemented a series of important reforms: freeing slaves, organising the digging of wells, developing education, and planting forests. His activities had a huge influence on the cultural and social development of the city, and his literary works became classics of Chinese literature.

• Liu Sanjie (Third Sister Liu)

  A legendary folk singer of the Zhuang people who, according to legend, lived during the Tang Dynasty. She is a cultural symbol of the entire Guangxi region. Legends describe her as a "Goddess of Song", whose incredible talent and courage in singing duels made her a heroine protecting the common people from the tyranny of the authorities. Her image is immortalised in numerous operas, films, and the famous light show "Impressions Liu Sanjie".

• Shi Tao (1642–1707 AD)

  One of the most famous and influential artists and art theorists of the early Qing Dynasty. He was born in Guangxi province and was a descendant of the imperial family of the overthrown Ming Dynasty. His work, characterised by individualism and expressiveness, had a huge influence on subsequent generations of Chinese artists. His connection to the region makes him an important figure in the cultural history of Guangxi.

• Li Ning (born 1963)

  A world-famous gymnast and successful entrepreneur born in Liuzhou. At the 1984 Olympic Games, he won six medals (three gold), becoming a national hero. After retiring from sports, he founded the sportswear company "Li-Ning", which has become one of the leading global brands. In 2008, he lit the Olympic cauldron at the opening ceremony of the Games in Beijing.

• Wei Wei (born 1963)

  One of China's most popular pop singers, whose career is closely linked to Liuzhou. Although she was born in Inner Mongolia, it was in Guangxi that she began her path to fame. Thanks to her powerful voice and charisma, she has sold more than 200 million records and become one of the most recognisable figures on the Chinese music scene.