广州作为中国著名的城市之一，有着丰富的历史和文化。其中一个令人好奇的问题是，为什么广州被称为“羊城”？让我们来揭开这个有趣的谜题。

根据历史记载，广州被称为“羊城”的由来可以追溯到两千多年前的秦朝时期。当时，广州地区的农业以养殖畜牧为主要经济活动之一。而羊在这里扮演着重要的角色，成为当地居民们生活和经济的重要组成部分。

这个名称还与广州特殊的地理环境有关。广州位于珠江三角洲，拥有较为湿润的气候和丰富的自然资源。与其他地区相比，广州靠近山区，山地草场适宜放牧。因此，广州的畜牧业发展较为繁荣，特别是养殖羊群。

另外，羊对于广州人民来说也具有特殊的象征意义。在中国传统文化中，羊象征着善良、温和和忠诚。广州人民以其勤劳、友善和淳朴的品质而自豪。因此，将广州称为“羊城”不仅体现了当地的经济特色，也传递了人们对这座城市独特精神的赞美。

随着时间的推移，“羊城”这个称号逐渐成为了广州的代名词。无论是在书籍、文章中，还是在广州人的口头语中，都可以听到这个称呼。它已经深入人心，并成为广州的标志之一。

总结起来，广州被称为“羊城”的原因包括其丰富的畜牧业和特殊的地理环境，以及广州人民善良、温和和忠诚的品质。这个名称不仅反映了广州的经济特色，还彰显了人们对这座城市独特精神的赞美。

In English:

As one of the famous cities in China, Guangzhou has a rich history and culture. One intriguing question about Guangzhou is why it is called "Yang Cheng" or "Sheep City" in Chinese. Let's uncover this interesting mystery.

According to historical records, the origin of Guangzhou being called "Yang Cheng" dates back to more than two thousand years ago during the Qin Dynasty. At that time, animal husbandry, particularly sheep farming, was one of the main economic activities in the Guangzhou region. Sheep played an important role in the lives and economy of the local residents.

The name is also related to Guangzhou's unique geographical environment. Located in the Pearl River Delta, Guangzhou has a relatively humid climate and abundant natural resources. Compared to other regions, Guangzhou is closer to mountainous areas with suitable grazing land. As a result, livestock farming, especially sheep rearing, thrived in Guangzhou.

Additionally, sheep hold special symbolism for the people of Guangzhou. In traditional Chinese culture, sheep symbolize kindness, gentleness, and loyalty. The people of Guangzhou take pride in their diligence, friendliness, and simplicity. Therefore, calling Guangzhou "Yang Cheng" not only reflects the local economic characteristics but also conveys praise for the unique spirit of this city.

Over time, the title of "Yang Cheng" has gradually become synonymous with Guangzhou. Whether in books, articles, or in the oral language of the locals, this appellation can be heard. It has become deeply ingrained in people's hearts and has become one of the symbols of Guangzhou.

To sum up, the reasons why Guangzhou is called "Yang Cheng" include its thriving animal husbandry industry, unique geographical environment, and the kind, gentle, and loyal qualities of its people. This name not only reflects Guangzhou's economic characteristics but also showcases the praise for the city's unique spirit.