Source: CCTV.com

03-14-2008 10:05

Construction is finally underway on a two-year project to expand China's National Museum, in the heart of the capital city. When the work is complete, the structure will be one of the world's largest art and history museums.

Construction is finally underway on a two-year project to expand China's National Museum, in the heart of the capital city.  (Photo: CCTV.com)

The huge reconstruction plan was announced at the beginning of 2007. Since then workers have spent over a year, dismantling and moving all 620,000 items in the collection.

When the work is complete, in March of 2010, the expanded museum will cover 190,000 square meters. Beijing Urban Construction Group Limited says there will be new additions extending to the east of the present structure.

Guo Hongjun, general engineer of Beijing Urban Construction Group Co. Ltd, said, "The south, north and west wings of the existing buildings, which cover nearly 35,000 square meters, will be repaired and reinforced. Infrastructure will be updated. Multi-media and digital technology will be installed to adapt the museum to present-day public needs."

The museum will have seven floors, including two underground. The original architectural style is to be preserved, according to the expansion blueprint.

 

Editor:Liu Fang