Location and Environment

Shangdu was situated near the present-day town of Dolon Nor in Inner Mongolia, roughly 350 kilometers north of Beijing. The city was built on a vast plain with rich grasslands and forests nearby, suitable for the Mongols’ traditional horse culture and hunting lifestyle.

The site’s natural environment was a key part of its appeal, offering a seasonal escape for the imperial court from the summer heat. Its rivers, forests, and grasslands provided resources and a setting for leisure, ceremonies, and military exercises.

Urban Layout

The city of Shangdu was a masterpiece of urban planning, combining Chinese architectural principles with Mongol cultural elements. It was rectangular, enclosed by thick walls, and divided into an inner city and an outer city.

• Inner City: The inner city housed the palace complex, administrative offices, and residences for the royal family and high officials. The palace itself was lavishly decorated with golden tiles and elaborate woodwork.
   

• Outer City: The outer city contained markets, residences for officials, artisans, and soldiers, as well as temples and parks.
   

The walls were constructed using rammed earth, a common Chinese method, reinforced with brick and stone. Shangdu’s streets were laid out in a grid pattern, reflecting Chinese urban design. shutdown123