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The Italian Barracks, located at 20 Guangming Road, Hebei District, Tianjin, was built in 1925. It features a spacious exercise yard and two tall, three-story buildings with sloping roofs at right angles, each with a corridor more than ten feet wide. The buildings are imposing and unique in style, and while well-preserved to this day, they also exude a sense of strangeness and mystery. Visitors who stop here are likely to have mixed feelings.
This Romanesque building, nestled in a rather unassuming alley, was one of the largest structures in the original Italian Concession. It's the only surviving foreign barracks of the nine foreign garrisons in Tianjin, and the only intact structure of its kind in the country. It's said that Puyi even visited the barracks during his stay in Tianjin, leaving a photo of it that can be seen in the exhibition room at Jingyuan.
The climate is East Asian monsoon and warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon. The former site of the Italian barracks is a typical ancient Roman-style building with an "concave"-shaped floor plan. It is large in scale and suitable for travel in all seasons.
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The Former Site of the Italian Barracks is a historical landmark in Tianjin, dating back to the period when Tianjin was a foreign concession. The barracks were once part of the Italian colonial presence in the city. Today, it stands as a reminder of the city's diverse historical influences, with its European-style architecture and ties to Tianjin's colonial past.
The site is located in the heart of Tianjin's Italian Concession area. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is the "Heping Road" Station, from which it is a short walk to the site. Several buses also pass by the area.
The site is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The best times to visit are in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding area as well.
The entrance fee is usually around ¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official website for a more convenient booking process.
While advance booking is not mandatory, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays, a few days ahead of your visit.
You can fully explore the Former Site of the Italian Barracks in about 1-2 hours. This includes time to walk around, take photos, and learn about the history of the site through any available exhibits or tours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some English-speaking guides offered during peak times. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also available for a self-guided experience.
The best spots for photos are near the main entrance, where the full grandeur of the European-style architecture is visible. The surrounding streets of the Italian Concession also offer great backdrops for photos, with cobblestone roads and old buildings.
Start by entering the main barracks building, followed by a stroll through the courtyard. Afterward, explore the surrounding area, which includes several other historical buildings, cafes, and shops. Finish your visit by walking through the nearby parks or along the river to soak in the atmosphere of the historic district.
Night visits are not commonly available, but the area around the barracks is beautifully lit at night. Occasionally, special exhibitions or evening events may be held, so it's best to check the schedule before planning a night visit.
The site tends to be less crowded on weekdays, especially in the mornings. Weekends and public holidays can see more tourists, so visiting during off-peak hours is ideal for a quieter experience.
The site is mostly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available in key areas. However, some of the cobblestone pathways may be challenging for those with mobility impairments.
Cards and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted at the site, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
Several cafes and small eateries are located around the Italian Concession area, offering both Chinese and Western cuisines. You can find restaurants serving Italian food, as well as local specialties.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at some restaurants and cafes in the area. Halal food options can also be found nearby.
Yes, souvenir shops are located near the site. Common items include historical memorabilia, local crafts, postcards, and small decorative items.
Taxi or ride-sharing apps are convenient options to continue your journey after visiting. Public transport, including buses and the metro, are also available nearby for easy access to other parts of Tianjin.
