When one describes the sights of Beijing destruction by foreign powers has often been mentioned. In most cases the traces of destruction could be eliminated by restoration and reconstruction. The Yuanming Yuan, however, is today a reminder of foreign violence.

Yuanming Yuan lies on the northwestern outskirts of the city, north of Beida (Beijing University) and only 500m from the Summer Palace, Yihe Yuan. it was built during the Qing Dynasty over a period of 150 years (construction commenced in 1709) and included three gardens: Yuanming Yuan, Changchun Yuan and Qichun Yuan. They were laid out separately, yet in a way so that they complement each other harmoniously. The area covered about 340 hectares. The peaks of the Western hills formed the background; the hills and lakes were man made. Countless springs flowed, feeding small canals winding their way through lovely velleys. White marble bridges spanned the water here and there. Palaces stood amidst ererald green woods; so did halls, pavilions and temples, some of them linked by covered walkways. Europeans took part in the designing, too, such as the Italian Jesuit F. Guiseppe Castiglione. Between 1747 and 1760, during Qianlong's reign, a complex of rococo palaces was built according to his plans.

In 1860, the grounds were completely destroyed within ten days. With utmost brutality, intimidate the Imperial government and to gain new colonies and exterrioriality by force. After the most valuable treasures had been stolen, the whole compleex was turned over to plundering soldiers. Finally, the British suggested setting fire to it , and the whole complex went up in flames. Only a few scatered ruins of the Xiyang Lou, the Europeanstyle Building, can be seen--a portal, a stone turtle, etc.

A small museum offers information about the lay-out and the destruction of Yuanming Yuan. A model conveys a vague idea of the former splendor and magnitude of the complex.

In comparison with other parks, Yuanming Yuan is frequented by few peopel from Beijing. A visit is worthwhile for Europeans, as it is a part of European colonial history that becomes visible here in a rather frightening way.