The Great Wall of China is primarily found in northern China, stretching across several provinces including Beijing, Hebei, and Shanxi. Built over several dynasties, the wall was constructed to protect Chinese states and empires from invasions and raids by nomadic tribes. The wall is not a single continuous structure but a series of walls and fortifications. It spans approximately 13,171 miles, making it one of the most extensive construction projects in history. Today, the Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of Chinese history and culture, attracting millions of visitors each year.