On July 27, 2024, the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India, announced that the Beijing Central Axis – “A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital” — has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which brings the total number of World Heritage sites in China to 59.

The Beijing Central Axis stretches 7.8 kilometers from the Bell and Drum Towers in the north to Yongdingmen Gate in the south, traversing the old city of Beijing. This axis consists of ancient imperial buildings, city management facilities, historical roads, modern public buildings, and public spaces. Established during the Yuan Dynasty, it took shape in the Ming Dynasty, was perfected in the Qing Dynasty, and has continued to evolve into modern times. With a history of over 750 years, it is a great example of traditional Chinese spatial organization and an outstanding model of urban cultural spaces.

Since 2021, under the leadership of the Institute’s Party Committee, the Beijing Institute of Surveying and Mapping has been dedicated to leveraging digital technology to provide high-precision, three-dimensional spatial data for the application of the Beijing Central Axis for World Heritage status. Efforts include position determination of the axis, archaeological surveying of the Tianqiao relics, construction of a three-dimensional real-world Central Axis, establishment of a heritage monitoring platform, spatial data transactions, digital exhibitions, and the development of cultural and creative products. These efforts have been pivotal in securing the Beijing Central Axis as a World Heritage site. Looking ahead, the Institute will continue to use digital technology to fully support the protection of this cultural heritage.