A giant statue of Mao Zedong stands in front of the Revolution Museum in Yan'an City. Photo taken on June 14, 2011. [Photo:CRIENGLISH.com]

Another point of interest in Yan'an is the Revolution Museum. It's the largest museum in this historical city.

The museum houses a thorough history of the early development of China during the years of 1938 to 1947. Old photos, weapons, and sculptures fill the various halls depicting what life was like during those formative and aggressive years. In front of this big white museum stands an impressive statue of Mao Zedong.

One thing that cannot be missed is Pagoda Hill. It would practically be impossible not to notice the tall pagoda that stands alone on a small mountain overlooking the city.

The pagoda was built during the Tang Dynasty, which ruled China from the years 618 to 907. The structure is an octagon, which stands nine stories tall; 44 meters at its highest point.

Inside the pagoda is a series of narrow steps and ladders leading all the way to the top that visitors can indulge in for only 10 yuan.

The area around the pagoda provides viewers with a 360-degree view of the city.

As a city, Yan'an could easily be classified as a living museum. There are many things here, which have been preserved in honor of the men and women who served the CPC during the early stages of the Chinese revolution. It's a must-see destination for anyone who is a scholar or fan of Chinese history.

Yan'an is just one of the many jewels of Shaanxi Province, an area in China rich with legends, history, and tradition.