When looking at some of the world’s greatest empires, Rome and Imperial China are usually at the forefront of the discussion. While both were powerful forces that left an indelible mark on their respective regions, the impact of Imperial China during the Qin and Han Dynasties, in particular, did not leave many visible or tangible landmarks that exist today.

In comparison, the Roman Empire left a tremendous number of landmarks that can still be seen today. From the Pantheon, Colosseum, and the Arch of Constantine in Rome, to the aqueducts of Segovia, and the Limes in Germany, there is ample evidence that Rome’s influence spread far and wide. It is no wonder why Roman monuments are so well-preserved; the use of stone and concrete as building materials, along with intricate detailing, have made them remarkable points of interest for centuries.

In contrast, the importance of the Qin and Han Dynasties lies not in the few remaining landmarks, but in the political and societal structure they left behind. The Great Wall of China, which was constructed during the Qin Dynasty, is perhaps the most tangible legacy from this period, but its construction was primarily for defensive purposes and its sprawling length is more symbolic than a masterpiece of architecture.

The Chinese Empire at that time was built on philosophical foundations that favored the natural state of things. Consequently, monuments in the style of the Romans were not typically built. Imperial China’s lasting impact can be seen in the adoption of bureaucracy, meritocracy, and the insistence on proper education and a well-regulated society – the same values that China prides itself on today.

In conclusion, while the Roman Empire left a legacy of monuments and tangible proof of its power and influence, the Qin and Han Dynasties of Imperial China left a less visible, but no less important, legacy in the form of an enduring political and social system.