An urban plan meant to better protect the cultural heritage in the centre of Beijing was unveiled on August 30, 2020, Chinese state media reported. The “core area” covers the Dongcheng and Xicheng districts in the capital city. The plan for the 92.5 sq km (38 sq miles) area puts an emphasis on the preservation of historical sites in old Beijing, including narrow alleys called hutongs and traditional courtyard houses called siheyuan.