A study on methods of conservation and adaptive reuse of Chang’an City wall sites in contemporary Xi’an in China

Chang’an (now Xi’an), the Tang Dynasty capital, retains rammed-earth city walls that are challenging to preserve, with only basic frameworks remaining. Urban development in modern Xi’an has unexpectedly revealed buried walls and gate sites overlapping with the city’s core areas. These poorly recognizable sites occupy urban space, creating preservation and integration challenges. This paper analyzes existing display methods: wall-site parks, greening markers, installation art, and museums. It explores how to maintain site authenticity while enhancing public understanding through interpretative displays, given the limited physical remains. The study emphasizes creating memorable historical imagery through varied presentation techniques. Additionally, it evaluates the applicability of different display methods in diverse urban contexts, aiming to balance proper protection with adaptive reuse. By identifying suitable integration strategies, the research seeks to harmonize ancient heritage with contemporary urban life, enabling these historical sites to serve public needs while preserving their cultural significance. The findings propose a framework for optimizing site utilization through context-sensitive approaches that respect heritage values and modern urban demands.