Local historians compiled profiles of the 10 most ancient towns in Beijing, singled out for their profound historical influences while marking the first time historians have attempted to systematically chronicle ancient towns in the municipality, according to the local chronicles compiling commission Thursday.

The commission compiled the 10-book set in late January profiling 10 ancient towns of greater Beijing based on historic materials and expert investigation, aiming to help protect Beijing's "town culture," Liu Zongyong, an author involved in the chronicle project, told the Global Times Thursday.

The 10 most ancient towns included Bulaotun and Gubeikou in Miyun county, Haidian in Haidian district, Nankou and Shahe in Changping district, Liangxiang and Liuli in Fangshan district, Yongning in Yanqing county, Zhaitang in Mentougou district and Zhangjiawan in Tongzhou district.

Most towns, situated on mountains or along rivers, were either ancient military garrisons or famous for their splendid natural landscapes and folk arts, according to editor Duan Bingren.

"When talking about Beijing's cultural heritage, most people first say the Great Wall and Forbidden City, seldom mentioning these towns," Liu said, "they believe ancient towns to be more characteristic of southern china."

"However, towns are an important part of Beijing history," Liu added, explaining most residents have no idea that Gubeikou was not only part of the Great Wall, but also of strategic military importance in the kingdom of Yan from the Warring States (475BC-221BC) to the end of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

"Among the 10 ancient towns, Haidian and Liangxiang town have since been swallowed by urban sprawl," Liu said, saying Haidian town is now Zhongguancun Plaza, while what was once Liangxiang town is now where the Fangshan government building is located.

"We need to promote these towns, since the government  won't rebuild them," Liu said.

There are around 100 ancient towns in the municipality, and Duan said historians will publish more books to introduce other ancient towns of Beijing, the Beijing Daily reported.