The remains of ancient towns through 2,000 years in Jiuquan, Gansu province, grace the journal Chinese National Geography, a monthly publication sponsored by the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The remains of ancient towns in Jiuquan, Gansu province, is published in the journal Chinese National Geography. [Photo/Chinese National Geography]

The 13 ancient towns, which include Quanquanzhi, Suoyang and Shibao, date back from the Han (202 BC - 220 AD) to the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912). 

Pictures of spectacular views are plastered on 24 pages of the magazine, giving readers a glimpse into the life of the ancients.

The Shanma Ancient Town [Photo by Huang Xiaohu]

The Suoyang Ancient Town [Photo by Cai Xiaoxiang]

The Shibao Ancient Town [Photo by Huang Xiaohu]

The Caocheng Ancient Town [Photo by Li Yulong]