Wuzhou history

The history of the city of Wuzhou spans over two millennia. Located in the east of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, it has played a key role in the life of South China since ancient times, becoming an important administrative and trading centre.

Foundation and First Mentions

The city was founded during the Han Dynasty, in 111 BC, under the name Cangwu. It was established as the administrative centre of the county of the same name and immediately acquired strategic importance for the empire, serving as an outpost for controlling the southern territories and local tribes. The name "Wuzhou" appeared significantly later, but its continuous history as a major urban settlement begins with the Han era.

Key Factors of Development

The growth and development of the city were driven by several interconnected factors:

• Geographical Location: Wuzhou is situated in a strategically important location at the confluence of the Guijiang and Xunjiang rivers, which form the voluminous Xijiang River — the "West River". This made it the natural "water gateway" connecting the southwestern regions with the Pearl River Delta.
• Trade: Thanks to its location at the intersection of river routes, the city quickly turned into a bustling trading hub. Goods passed through it from the inland areas of Guangxi and Yunnan to major port cities like Guangzhou, and vice versa.
• Political Power: The status of an administrative centre, obtained at its foundation, ensured the constant presence of a garrison and officials in the city, which contributed to stability and economic development over the centuries.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Wuzhou was not only a military and administrative centre but also a cultural one. As part of the Cantonese cultural and linguistic area, it became a place of interaction between the culture of central China and the traditions of the southern peoples. The city's economy was closely linked to its role as a river port: agricultural products, timber, medicinal herbs, and other regional goods were concentrated, processed, and redistributed here.

Key Milestones in the History of Wuzhou

The history of Wuzhou, spanning more than two thousand years, is filled with events that shaped it as a significant cultural and economic centre in southern China. Below are the main stages of its development.

• 111 BC — During the Han Dynasty, Cangwu County was established on the territory of modern Wuzhou, marking the first mention of an administrative centre in this region.
• 621 AD — During the Tang Dynasty reign, the Wuzhou Prefecture was formed, from which the city received its current name.
• 1277 — After the Mongol conquest, during the Yuan Dynasty, the administrative unit was transformed into the Wuzhou Region.
• 1368 — With the rise of the Ming Dynasty, the city's status was upgraded to Wuzhou Prefecture, strengthening its administrative significance.
• 1470 — Wuzhou becomes the seat of the Viceroy of Liangguang, who governed the vast territories of Guangdong and Guangxi.
• 1897 — The city was opened to foreign trade as a treaty port, facilitating its transformation into a major commercial centre known as "Little Hong Kong".
• 1937–1945 — During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Wuzhou served as a vital transport and logistics hub in the rear due to its location.
• 1949 — The city becomes part of the People's Republic of China, opening a new page in its modern history.
• Late 20th – Early 21st Century — Wuzhou experiences a period of rapid economic growth, establishing itself as one of the key industrial and port cities of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Major Stages of Development and Their Significance

The development of Wuzhou over the centuries was defined by its strategic position, which facilitated the city's transformation into an important economic, administrative, and cultural centre. Key transformations have shaped its modern appearance.

• Emergence as a River Port. Its location at the confluence of the Guijiang and Xunjiang rivers, forming the mighty Xijiang River, became the main factor for prosperity. This turned Wuzhou into a crucial transport hub connecting inland areas with the Pearl River Delta and laid the foundation for its centuries-old trading fame.
• Centre of the Liangguang Viceroyalty. Starting from the 15th century, Wuzhou served as the residence of the Viceroy governing the provinces of Guangdong and Guangxi. This status significantly increased its administrative and political influence in the region, promoting urban development.
• Opening as a Treaty Port (1897). This step opened the city to international trade and foreign investment. It led to rapid economic growth, modernisation, and the appearance of the unique "Qilou" architectural style — arcade buildings that remain the hallmark of the historic centre today. During this period, Wuzhou earned the nickname "Little Hong Kong".
• Role in the Revolutionary Period. In the early 20th century, the city played a notable role in the activities of Sun Yat-sen and his supporters. Wuzhou served as an important base for preparing the Northern Expedition, forever inscribing it in the history of modern Chinese statehood.
• Industrialisation in the 20th Century. After 1949, the city's economy began to transform from predominantly trading to industrial. New enterprises were built, changing the economic structure and contributing to the growth of the urban population.
• World Capital of Artificial Gems. Beginning in the 1980s, Wuzhou rapidly developed an industry for processing synthetic gems. Today, the city accounts for about 70% of the world's production of artificial gemstones, making it a globally renowned centre in this industry and a main driver of the modern economy.

The architectural appearance of the city of Wuzhou is a vivid reflection of its rich history as a river port and trading crossroads. Here, traditional southern Chinese Lingnan architecture harmoniously combines with elements introduced during the era of active trade with the West. It is this blend of styles that forms the unique and memorable image of the city.

Historic Centre and Qilou Architecture

The heart of the city and its main architectural gem is the districts with buildings in the Qilou style. This style, characteristic of South China and Southeast Asia, features multi-storey houses where the upper floors project over the pavement, supported by columns. Thus, covered galleries are formed along the streets, protecting pedestrians from the scorching sun and heavy rains. Wuzhou is home to one of the largest and best-preserved complexes of such buildings in China.

• Golden Age: Most Qilou-style buildings were constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Wuzhou became one of the first river ports opened to international trade. This led to an economic boom and the construction of new commercial and residential buildings.
• Fusion of Styles: Qilou facades are often decorated with elements of European architecture — Baroque details, arches, and moulding, testifying to the cultural exchange of that time.
• Iconic Streets: A walk along the old streets of the city, such as Danan Road (騎樓城), allows one to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of this unique arcade architecture.

Traditional and Religious Structures

Besides Qilou, examples of more traditional Chinese architecture have been preserved in the city and its surroundings. These are temples, pagodas, and ancient residences reflecting the cultural and religious beliefs of the region. Iconic objects include, for example, the Longmu Temple, dedicated to the Dragon Mother Goddess. Its architecture demonstrates classic features of southern Chinese temple building with richly decorated roofs and intricate wood and stone carvings.

Modern Development

In recent decades, like many cities in China, Wuzhou has been actively developing. New residential quarters, modern public buildings, and transport infrastructure are appearing. However, urban planning policy is aimed at preserving the historic core, especially the unique Qilou district, which has been reconstructed and turned into a popular tourist zone with shops and restaurants.

Prominent Figures Associated with Wuzhou

The city of Wuzhou and its surroundings have been the birthplace or an important stage in the lives of several notable figures in the history and culture of China. Their activities span politics, military affairs, and literature, leaving a mark on the heritage of the region and the country.

• Li Jishen (1885–1959) — A military and political leader. A native of Cangwu County (part of modern Wuzhou), he was one of the key generals of the National Revolutionary Army. At various times, he served as Governor of Guangdong, commander of the Wuzhou garrison, and was one of the founders of the Revolutionary Committee of the Kuomintang. After 1949, he became Vice Chairman of the PRC.
• Huang Shaohong (1895–1966) — A warlord and politician, one of the leaders of the "New Guangxi Clique" alongside Li Zongren and Bai Chongxi. In the 1920s, he established control over Wuzhou, which allowed him to control important trade routes. He served as Governor of Guangxi Province, and later other provinces, playing a significant role in the political life of China in the first half of the 20th century.
• Liang Yusheng (1924–2009) — One of the greatest 20th-century writers in the "wuxia" genre. Born in Mengshan County (within Wuzhou territory). He is considered a pioneer of the "new school" of this genre, enriching it with historical accuracy and psychological depth of characters. His novels, such as "Pingzong Xiaying Lu" and "Baifa Monü Zhuan" ("The Legend of the White-Haired Witch"), have been adapted for the screen many times.
• Sun Yat-sen (1866–1925) — Although not a native of Wuzhou, his activities are closely linked to the city. In 1921–1922, he established a headquarters in Wuzhou to prepare for the Northern Expedition, aimed at unifying China. A Memorial Hall built in his honour has been preserved in the city, highlighting the historical importance of Wuzhou in the revolutionary movement.
• Li Xiucheng (1823–1864) — One of the most outstanding military commanders during the Taiping Rebellion. Born in Tengxian County, which today belongs to the Wuzhou prefecture-level city. He became famous as a talented and courageous commander, receiving the title "Loyal King" (Zhong Wang). His military campaigns had a huge impact on the course of the rebellion.