SUN YAT-SEN'S MAUSOLEUM

  Revered as Nanjing's most coveted landmark, the Mausoleum of Sun Yat-sen, one of China's greatest revolutionary heroes, stands boldly amidst the forested scenery of Purple Mountain. As the first president of the Republic of China, Dr. Sun is credited as one of the leading organizers in the historical effort to establish a modern republic within China.

Construction of the mausoleum began on March 12, 1926, exactly one year after Dr. Sun's death, and was completed three years later. The structure was designed to reflect both Chinese and Western styles of architecture, incorporating the white and blue colors of the Republic, while integrating a Western approach to planning. The combination of both philosophies reflects the nature of Dr. Sun himself, who was influenced not only by his traditional Chinese ideals, but also by Western concepts. The entrance gate is inscribed with the phrase, "The World Belongs to the People," one of his most recognizable political mottos. The site for the mausoleum was chosen by Dr. Sun himself in commemoration of the Revolution of 1911, which marked the beginning of the Republic of China.

Just beyond the entrance hall nearly 400 white marble steps lead to the main platform of the tomb. In an effort to incorporate Sun's political ideas into the architecture the platform is not visible from the base of the stairs, representing the belief that people should constantly strive to improve their country. Once atop the platform a grand panorama of the wide staircase and lower buildings comes to view against a field of green, with Nanjing’s modern skyline rising beyond. An inscription above the main memorial hall reads, "Democracy, Nationalism, and People's Livelihood," Sun's three most cherished political ideals.