Marathon runners at the Beijing Olympics will get an up close look at many of the capital's historic buildings and top universities.

Olympic organizers have arranged parts of the 42.195-kilometer route to run through Peking University and Tsinghua University, which enables athletes to enjoy some ancient architecture, including Yan Garden, China News Service reports.

Yan Garden in Peking University is famous for its ancient architecture with traditional Chinese upturned eaves and glazed tiles.

The stretch in Tsinghua is about two kilometers, an official with the university said.

The two schools may renovate some roads for the event.

The route is set along many historical buildings and Beijing's landmarks, the report said.

The marathon will begin at Tian'anmen Square and end at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest.

An official with the International Association of Athletics Federations told Kyodo News that the route will pass Tiantan (Temple of Heaven), Yongding Gate, Zhongguancun, Peking University and Tsinghua University.

The women's marathon will be run on August 17 next year and men's race will be held on August 24.

(Shanghai Daily October 11, 2007)