Ancient city glows under light of sacred flame

At about half past four on Wednesday afternoon, the Pingyao leg of the 2008 Olympic Torch Relay concluded with last torchbearer Wang Jianzhong igniting the flame cauldron.

104 torchbearers carried the sacred flame through Pingyao, along a route that highlighted the historic culture of the ancient city.

Located in the middle of Shanxi Province, Pingyao's Old City has been designated a World Heritage Site. Reconstructed following traditional Han Chinese styles, 4 large avenues, 8 smaller roads, and 72 narrow paths form the grid of the city. All of the 3,797 residences in Pingyao Old City are built in the traditional courtyard style; 400 of these have been beautifully preserved. Unique temples and stores dot the streets, making for a very picturesque image of old China.

Pingyao's rustic atmosphere gives visitors a glimpse into the glory of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. In addition, once the most important financial center in China, Pingyao is home to China's first bank, Rishengchang Exchange Shop.

The sacred flame's next stop is Taiyuan, the capital city of Shanxi Province.

(BOCOG June 26, 2008)