There are plenty of things to do in China. However, one activity in particular stands out; visiting a ‘nail house’. For those not in the know, ‘nail households’ refer to houses or homeowners who refuse to move for development’s sake. They’re called ‘nail houses’ because they stick out like nails that can’t be hammered down or extracted.
A house and its owner have attracted attention for sticking out, literally, in the middle of a highway in China. Apparently, its owner, a woman named Liang (梁), made the decision to remain in place as she wasn’t satisfied with the government’s compensation offer. Needless to say, her novel position has brought plenty of visitors to her house.
Ms. Liang’s house is located in Guangzhou City in the Guangdong Province, on the Huandao road in the Haizhu district. Initially, the area had been a housing area for folks. However, in 2010, the government planned to build the Haizhuyong Bridge which would cut through the area. The other residents were amiable to the relocation and compensation offered. However, no one accounted for Ms. Liang’s staunch decision to remain.
Authorities reportedly offered her housing options, which she rejected. Ms. Liang later told the media she had first been offered a flat located near a morgue, which was unacceptable to her. Additionally, the government also offered monetary compensation alongside other housing options, the most generous being the offer of two flats and 1.3 million yuan (~RM840,000). Ms. Liang allegedly then asked for four flats and 2 million yuan (~RM1.3 million).
Negotiations eventually broke down and the government was forced to build around her. As a result, Ms. Liang’s little house is now sandwiched between two major roads. Some have dubbed the spot as “Eye of the Pearl” as the shape reminds them of a human eye. Many have also stopped by to visit the little house, which can be accessed by a route leading under the bridge.
Well, stubborn is as stubborn does we suppose! While some believe it would have been better for Ms. Liang to move to a quiet neighbourhood, she seems perfectly content to remain where she is. So, if you’re ever in the area and are curious about the novel little home, feel free to drop by for a visit. Just be respectful!
Here’s an aerial view of the hosue:
Sources: China Press, Oddity Central, YouTube
