A monument to the huge human cost of some of the gigantic construction projects of the early Ming dynasty is the Yangshan Quarry (located some 15–20 km (9–12 mi) east of the walled city and Ming Xiaoling mausoleum), where a gigantic stele, cut on the orders of the Yongle Emperor, lies abandoned, just as it was left 600 years ago when it was understood it was impossible to move or complete it. COUNT 5
QSN1 How far from Nanjing is the Yangshan Quarry? ANS1 15–20 km (9–12 mi) east of the walled city QSN2 What large item is abandoned at the Quarry? ANS2 a gigantic stele QSN3 How long ago was the stele abandoned? ANS3 600 years ago QSN4 Why was the stele abandoned? ANS4 it was impossible to move or complete it QSN5 Who ordered the creation of the stele? ANS5 the Yongle Emperor