Nanjing, in east China's Jiangsu Province, has unveiled plans to connect 12 sections of the Ming Dynasty city wall over the next three years.

The project will cost over one and a half billion yuan, or around US$200 million.

The wall was originally built more than 600 years ago in the early Ming Dynasty.

It was more than 33 kilometers long and stood about 20 meters high.

At that time, it was the largest capital city wall in the world, although only about 20 kilometers of the structure has survived centuries of weathering.

Local officials began repair work in 2001, and so far, half of the project has been completed.

Starting in August, the renovated sections will be connected by greenbelts and historical scenic spots.

(CRI.com August 4, 2004)