Zheng He, widely acclaimed as a trailblazer in global navigation, is celebrated for his instrumental role in creating the renowned “Maritime Silk Road”. His legacy unfolds over an impressive timeline of 28 years, throughout which he embarked on seven monumental voyages, pioneering maritime trade routes that bridged China with various other countries and regions.
Nanjing, being the launching point of Zheng He’s maritime explorations, is richly embroidered with historical landmarks linked to his illustrious legacy. The Longjiang Shipyard Site, nestled on the western bank of the Qinhuai River estuary in Nanjing, stands as testament to the city’s shipbuilding prowess. It was here that the fleet of vessels that would carry Zheng He on his epic voyages were meticulously crafted. As per historical chronicles, in the fifth year of the Yongle reign (1407), the shipyard was tasked with refurbishing 249 ships of varying sizes and designs to cater to the diplomatic missions to Western nations.
The Nanjing Zheng He Treasure Ship Ruins Park, established on the premises of the Longjiang Shipyard Site, is a grand commemorative site, inaugurated by the city of Nanjing in 2005 to mark the 600th anniversary of Zheng He’s first voyage.
A rich collection of artifacts is on display within the park. One fascinating exhibit includes windows exquisitely crafted from ancient shellfish shells. Archaeological digs at the shipyard unveiled eight such shells, expertly trimmed into rectangular forms and polished down to an impressive thickness of just 0.1 millimeters. These glittering, translucent shell pieces were ingeniously integrated into the ships’ lattice windows, offering protection from the elements while allowing ample light inside.
The park also offers a glimpse into the remarkable shipbuilding craftsmanship of the era. A standout example is the watertight compartments built into the ships. Artisans employed tools like chisels and hammers to embed tightly twisted fibers – composed of hemp, tung oil, lime, and other materials – into the crevices between the planks, ensuring a waterproof seal.
Whether it’s the shipyard site itself, Zheng He’s tomb, or the various historical artifacts unearthed at the treasure ship site, these invaluable remnants stand as vivid testament to that bygone era. Visitors to these sites can experience an immersive journey into the remarkable age of Zheng He.
China’s State Council officially recognized July 11 as China’s Maritime Day in 2005, commemorating the launch of Zheng He’s inaugural voyage on this date in 1405. Thus, every year, the country celebrates the legacy of this pioneer who truly transformed global navigation.
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