Xichang history

The city of Xichang boasts a rich and ancient history spanning over two thousand years. The first significant mentions of this region date back to the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC – 25 AD). During that era, Qiongdu County (邛都县) was established in this territory, serving as a vital administrative and military outpost of the empire on its southwestern frontiers. The city received its current name—Xichang—much later, during the Qing Dynasty in 1730.

The formation and development of Xichang were defined by several key factors. Geographical location played a paramount role: the city is situated in the fertile valley of the Anning River, making it an important agricultural centre amidst a mountainous landscape. Strategically, Xichang connected the central plains of China with Yunnan province and further with the regions of Southeast Asia. Thanks to this, the city became a crucial hub on the Southern Silk Road, also known as the "Tea Horse Road." This facilitated active trade; caravans carrying silk, salt, tea, and other goods passed through the city. Furthermore, for centuries, Xichang retained its military-administrative significance as a stronghold of central authority in a region inhabited by various ethnic groups, primarily the Yi people.

The early cultural and economic features of Xichang were formed at the crossroads of several civilizations. Here, active interaction and intermingling occurred between the culture of Han settlers and the distinctive traditions of local peoples. This is reflected in unique local customs, folklore, and crafts. Historically, the city's economy relied on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, and income from transit trade. Its status as a vital point on trade routes ensured the city's stable development and cultural exchange for many centuries.

Ancient History and the Middle Ages

Han Dynasty (approx. 111 BC): Qiongdu County was established in the territory of modern Xichang, becoming an important administrative centre in the empire's southwest.

Three Kingdoms Period (223–263 AD): The region becomes the arena for the southern campaigns of the renowned strategist Zhuge Liang.

Tang Dynasty (618–907): These lands were subordinated to the Jianchang Administration, strengthening their role as a transport hub on the Southern Silk Road.

Ming Dynasty (1387): The ancient city of Jianchang was founded, with historical buildings that have survived to this day.

Modern and Contemporary History

1730: Under the Qing Dynasty, Xichang County was officially created, giving the city its modern name.

1939: Xichang became part of the newly formed Xikang Province.

1955: Xikang Province was dissolved, and Xichang became part of Sichuan Province.

1970: Construction began on the future Xichang Satellite Launch Centre, chosen for its remote and secure location.

1978: Xichang becomes the administrative centre of the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture.

1984: The Xichang Satellite Launch Centre was commissioned and conducted its first launch, opening the space era for the city.

1990: The first commercial launch of a foreign satellite, AsiaSat 1, was carried out from the spaceport.

Key Stages of Xichang's Development

The development of Xichang is a story of transformation from an ancient trading post into a modern high-tech and cultural hub. The following events played a key role in this journey:

• Establishment on the Southern Silk Road: In ancient times, the city, then known as Qiongdu, was a vital transit point on trade routes connecting central China with Southeast Asia. This laid the foundation for its economic and cultural significance for centuries to come.
• Construction of the Chengdu-Kunming Railway (1970s): The laying of this transport artery radically changed the region's logistics. Xichang ceased to be an isolated mountain city, gaining direct connections to major economic centres, which provided a powerful impetus for industrialisation.
• Prefecture Capital Status (1978): Granting Xichang the status of the administrative centre of the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture strengthened its political importance and facilitated centralized management, attracting investment in urban infrastructure.
• Creation of the Spaceport (began in 1970, first launch in 1984): This event was a turning point in the city's history. The construction of one of China's main spaceports turned Xichang into a national centre for aerospace technology. This attracted highly qualified specialists to the city and promoted the development of science and education.
• Entry into the International Space Services Market (1990): The first commercial launch of a foreign satellite from the Xichang spaceport marked the city's integration into the global economy. This brought significant revenue and strengthened Xichang's reputation as a "Space City."
• Tourism Development: The unique combination of the picturesque Qionghai Lake, the distinctive culture of the Yi people, and "space tourism" has made Xichang a popular destination for visitors. This has created new jobs and diversified the city's economy.
• Modern Urbanisation: In recent decades, Xichang has experienced rapid growth. New residential districts are being actively built, and the transport network is being modernized, including the airport and expressways, transforming it into a modern city that offers a comfortable lifestyle.

The architectural appearance of Xichang represents a multi-layered canvas reflecting the key eras of its development—from an ancient imperial outpost to a modern space centre. Several main periods can be distinguished in the city's urban planning and architecture.

Traditional Architecture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties

The historical core of Xichang is the Jianchang Ancient City, founded during the Ming Dynasty. Its layout and architecture are typical examples of urban planning from that time. This style is characterised by:

• Axial Symmetry and Clear Layout: The city had a fan-shaped structure with a main axis and a network of nine streets and eighteen lanes, reflecting traditional principles of harmony and order.
• Timber Frame: As with most traditional Chinese structures, the main structural element of buildings was a wooden frame, while walls served merely as enclosures.
• Internal Courtyards: Residential and public buildings were constructed around one or several internal courtyards, creating enclosed and private spaces suitable for families.
• Decorative Elements: Curved tiled roofs, carved wooden details, and stone bases—all these created the recognisable look of the old city. Today, this area is being actively restored, preserving its historical heritage.

Industrial and Functional Architecture (Mid-20th Century)

With the arrival of industrialisation and, in particular, the construction of the Chengdu-Kunming Railway and the creation of the spaceport, a functional style appeared in Xichang's architecture. This period did not leave behind outstanding architectural masterpieces but formed the appearance of industrial and residential districts built for workers and engineers. Buildings from this time are distinguished by simple forms, a lack of decoration, and a utilitarian approach.

Modern Urban Planning (Late 20th – 21st Century)

The transformation of Xichang into a "Space Capital" and a popular tourist centre gave a powerful impetus to modern construction. This stage is characterised by eclecticism and large-scale projects:

• High-Rise Construction: Modern residential complexes, hotels, and office buildings have appeared, radically changing the city skyline, especially in new districts.
• Infrastructure Development: The construction of modern transport interchanges, a new airport, and public spaces such as squares and parks aims to create a comfortable urban environment.
• Fusion of Styles: Modern architecture often combines global trends (use of glass, metal, concrete) with attempts to reinterpret traditional forms. In Xichang, this is evident in new public buildings and tourist facilities, which may include elements referencing the culture of the Yi people or classical aesthetics.

Thus, Xichang today is a city of contrasts, where the restored streets of ancient Jianchang sit adjacent to modern skyscrapers, and the heritage of the Ming Dynasty lives in harmony with 21st-century technologies, creating a unique and multifaceted urban landscape.

Distinguished Personalities Associated with Xichang

The history of Xichang, from an ancient hub on trade routes to the modern "Space Capital," is inextricably linked with the names of many influential figures from various eras. Below are some of the key figures who have left their mark on the city's destiny.

• Zhuge Liang (181–234) — An outstanding strategist and statesman of the Three Kingdoms period. In 225, he led the famous southern campaign to pacify tribes in the territory of the modern Liangshan Yi Prefecture. His successful campaigns in this region strengthened the power of the Shu Kingdom and facilitated the integration of local peoples, defining the historical significance of this land for centuries.
• Meng Huo (active approx. 225) — A legendary leader of the southern tribes (Nanman). According to historical chronicles and the famous novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms," Meng Huo led the resistance against Zhuge Liang's campaign. He became a symbol of the resilience and distinctiveness of the local population, and the story of how Zhuge Liang captured and released him seven times to win his trust became an integral part of folklore.
• Emperor Hongwu (Zhu Yuanzhang, 1328–1398) — The founder and first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. It was during his reign, in 1387, that the fortified city of Jianchang—the historical core of modern Xichang—was founded. This event cemented the city's strategic military and administrative importance on the empire's southwestern borders.
• Mao Zedong (1893–1976) — The founder of the People's Republic of China. In 1967, he made the strategic decision to build a spaceport in Xichang County. The choice of this location was due to its remoteness and terrain. This decision radically changed the city's fate, turning it into one of the world's leading centres for aerospace technology.
• Zhang Xueyu (Contemporary) — Director of the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. As the leader of one of China's most important and active spaceports, he is responsible for implementing key national and international space programmes, including the launches of "BeiDou" navigation satellites and "Chang'e" lunar missions. His work continues and develops Xichang's legacy as the country's "gateway to space."