The Wenshi Ancestral Hall in Tanxia Village, Linwu, Hunan

Built during the Jiading period of the Southern Song Dynasty and expanded during the Ming Dynasty, the Wenshi Ancestral Hall has weathered centuries while preserving its original architectural charm. This quintessential southern Hunan ancestral hall features blue bricks and dark tiles, exuding timeless elegance. Its soaring eaves, intricate brick and wood carvings, towering firewalls, and majestic horse-head walls create a harmonious and dynamic layout. The ornate beams and painted rafters enhance the ancient village's allure, while the weathered doors and windows bear witness to the passage of time and past prosperity. The hall spans three bays with two courtyards, covering over 200 square meters. It boasts a flush-gable roof, horse-head walls, wooden pillars on stone bases in the entrance hall, and a pair of exquisitely carved stone drums from the Ming Dynasty at the entrance. A precious stele from the Wanli era, documenting the hall's renovation, remains preserved on the right side. Recognized as a key cultural relic of Chenzhou City.