The photo taken on March 25, 2004 shows part of the Mantang Hakka compound buildings in Shixing County of southern Province of Guangdong. Covering an area of 11,700 square meters, the compound buildings were first built in 1833. It is a miracle that the buildings have been preserved so well over a period of some 170 years. They are not only firm and durable but also warm in winter and cool in summer. (Xinhua Photo)

    A man checks the iron-covered door of a house of the Mantang Hakka compound. (Xinhua Photo)

An elderly women sits in front of a house of the Mantang Hakka compound buildings. (Xinhua Photo)