The Earthen Sentinel: Discovering the Ming Dynasty Legacy of Yongtai Tortoise City

Located approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Sitan Town in Jingtai County, Baiyin, Yongtai Tortoise City is a rare and remarkably preserved military fortress dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Constructed in 1608 during the 36th year of the Wanli Emperor’s reign, it was built as a strategic base to defend against northern tribal incursions along the frontier. The city earned its name from its unique architectural layout, which resembles a "Golden Tortoise Seizing the Sea" when viewed from above: the southern gate acts as the head, the northern gate as the tail, and the four peripheral gates as the legs.

The fortress features a perimeter wall of 1.7 kilometers, standing 12 meters high and made entirely of compacted yellow earth. Historically, the city was a complete military ecosystem, equipped with battlements, gates, horse tracks, and a surrounding moat. Within its walls, the city once supported a garrison of soldiers and their families, housing granaries, temples, and even a historic school. Surrounding the city are several beacon towers located on high ground, which were used to transmit military signals across the desert.

Today, Yongtai Tortoise City is recognized as a "Living Fossil" of ancient Chinese military architecture. While it remains a living village, it faces challenges from desertification and a declining population. For travelers, it offers a hauntingly beautiful landscape of ruin and resilience. It has become a premier destination for photography, particularly at sunset when the golden light hits the earthen walls and local shepherds drive their flocks through the ancient gates. Its rugged, authentic atmosphere has also made it a popular filming location for numerous movies and television dramas.