The Old City of Shanghai

The Old City of Shanghai.

While in town back in May, I set out for a trip in the traditional urban core of Shanghai, once defended by a strong wall, almost completely gone today.

Vulnerable, the Old City is disappearing rapidly, large scale demolition giving way to skyscrapers, residential towers, and squeaky clean developments, while residents are forced out of dilapidated homes.

Nevertheless, as cranes and bulldozers are closing in, the Shanghainese go about their daily lives in the small alleyways. They work, play, eat, rest, socialize, and this community continues to live in a very intimate fashion. But for how long ? What will be left of the city’s cultural heritage on my next visit?