SYDNEY.- The Powerhouse Museum, in partnership with the National Museum of China in Beijing, will present the first major international exhibition about China’s historic Great Wall - The Great Wall of China: dynasties, dragons and warriors - featuring treasures rarely seen outside the vaults of China’s major museums, opening at the Powerhouse Museum on 28 September 2006 and then Melbourne Museum in March 2007.

The Great Wall of China: dynasties, dragons and warriors will bring to life many of the fascinating stories associated with the walls over a period of more than 2,000 years.

Like a giant stone dragon, the Great Wall winds across the north of China from remote deserts to the sea. Often referred to as ‘The Eighth Wonder of the World’, the Great Wall of China has fascinated people for centuries, inspiring fantastic claims and legendary tales.

Not a single unbroken barrier, the Great Wall is a network of walls: built, repaired and extended by a succession of Chinese dynasties. The walls and watchtowers that remain bear witness to over 2000 years of Chinese history — monuments to countless builders, warriors, nomads, traders and travellers.

This exhibition tells the story of the people who built, defended and lived alongside the Great Wall of China. It charts the Great Wall’s remarkable transformation from its ancient origins as a defensive barrier, to its modern status as the most celebrated symbol of China and one of the great wonders of the world.