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2550/06/06

China city


Photo Title : CHINA OLD AND NEWLocation : Xi'an, ChinaAlumni Name : Joseph GravesAlumni Class : 1970Program : China, Oct/Nov 2005Description : This night scene from the central square in the city of Xiían shows the contrast between the huge historic Bell Tower and the vibrant modern shopping mall behind and the modern subway entrance in front. The Bell Tower, with its triple tiered roof, was built in 1384 and restored in 1739. It is located at the convergence of the cityís four main streets that spread out at right angles to lead to the four gates in the city wall on the North, South, East and West sides of the city. This juxtaposition of chinaís old architecture and eastern heritage with the shinny, neon glitz of modern and western appearance of much of Chinaís commerce is on display in many of Chinaís largest cities. The image is punctuated with the familiar golden arches of McDonaldís at the right of the picture.