Chang'an

Ancient name of modern Xi'an, Shaanxi province, China. Chang'an was founded in 202 BC as the capital of the former Han dynasty (206 BC-AD 9). It was later also the capital of the Sui (581-618) and Tang (618-907) dynasties. With over 1 million inhabitants, it was the world's largest city by the year 750. Chang'an was divided into three parts: the palace city, the imperial city (for the officials) and the outer city for craftsmen and merchants. Many ancient buildings survive, including temples, pagodas and fortifications.