The dragon is revered in Chinese culture as a sign of sanctity, good fortune, and power. The Great Wall, which represents China's border defenses and national unity, is closely associated with dragon culture in the following ways.
Firstly, one of the design inspirations for the Great Wall came from the image of the dragon. The undulating and winding appearance of the Great Wall, enlightened by the symbolism of the dragon, resembles the sinuous and circling shape of the dragon's body as depicted in traditional Chinese paintings.
Secondly, dragon motifs and carvings are a common sight on the Great Wall's architecture and decorations. This includes dragon reliefs, colorful dragon paintings, and other dragon-inspired designs that can be seen on the watchtowers and walls of the Great Wall, which are a direct reflection of dragon culture.
Thirdly, dragon culture holds significant importance in the folklore and stories of the regions surrounding the Great Wall. In many legends related to the Great Wall, dragons are portrayed as divine beasts that safeguard the Great Wall, the country, and its people.
In general, the Great Wall was constructed to defend against the invasion of nomadic peoples from the north in ancient Chinese history, signifying the stability of the ancient Chinese regime and the strength of the country; while the dragon is honored as a symbol of imperial power in Chinese culture, representing the glory of the emperor's right and supreme authority. Therefore, the combination of the Great Wall and the dragon culture embodies not only the resilience of the Chinese nation in defending its homeland but also the authority and strength inherent in traditional Chinese culture, with a rich cultural legacy and a captivating aesthetic.