Ancient Roman Castles of the Orient: Enclosed houses in China's Jiangxi (4)

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Residents are busy around a well in the Wushi Enclosed House in Longnan. (China Daily)

The Liyuan Enclosed House in Liren township constructed during the Ming Dynasty is the biggest in Longnan county - six times bigger than the Guanxi enclosed house.

The unusual shape of its outer wall indicates that it was added after the houses were built. It was constructed for defense purposes, Lai says.

The three front doors indicate the house belonged to an official's family. The central door was only used by the landlord and honored guests.

Behind the doors and main rooms is a maze-like area composed of 64 alleys, which was also built for security.

"This enclosed house reflects traditional Chinese culture in the form of architecture," Lai says.

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