Former Residence of Soong Chingling

 Former Residence of Soong Chingling
Soong Chingling is regarded as one of the greatest ladies of the twentieth century. She is praised as "Mother of the Nation" due to her great contribution to the Chinese revolution and her work with women and children.

Near the north bank of the Hou Hai (Back Sea, a big lake exclusively for the royal families of the past) is located Soong Chingling's home, where she spent 18 years of her life, working till the last day. It has been open to public as approved by the State Council in 1982.

It has a quiet and beautiful courtyard covering an area of more than 7,722 squareyards. Originally, it was Prince Chun's mansion in the late Qing Dynasty (1644- 1911). The whole residence is surrounded by a small lake and composed of agrand entrance, side hall, two wing-rooms (the east and west), back house, and a newly-built main building. The grand entrance and back house serve as exhibition halls. Over 400 historical pictures and more than 300 precious cultural relics are exhibited to the public, including a group photo of her and her husband, Dr. Sun Yat Sen, the forerunner of Chinese revolution, a photo taken with Chairman Mao during the Chongqing Negotiation and also some personal objects, such as a small pistol she once carried on her hip.

Lying in tasteful surroundings, it is a good place to recall its master – Soong Chingling's great spirit of serving the country and the people.