Forbidden City

The Forbidden City was named this because it was off limits for 500 years.



It is the largest and best preserved cluster of ancient buildings in China. It was home to two dynasties of emperors, the Ming and the Qing, who didn't leave these walls unless absolutely required.

.

Restored in the 17'th century, the Meridian Gate is a massive portal which in earlier times was reserved for the use of the emperor only. Across the Golden Stream which is shaped to resemble a bow and is spanned by five marble bridges is the Supreme Harmony Gate, overlooking a massive courtyard that could hold imperial audiences of up to 100 000 people.

(One of the five marble bridges)

Raised on a marble terrace are the three Great Halls (San Dadian), the heart of the Forbidden City, (Taihe Dian), The Hall of Supreme Harmony, (Zhongde Dian) , the Hall of Middle Harmony and (Baohe Dian), The Hall of Preserving Harmony.


Taihe Dian is the most important and largest structure in the Forbidden City. It was built in the 15'th century and restored in the 17'th century. It was used for ceremonial occasions, such as the emperors birthday, the nomination of military leaders and coronations.

Inside Taihe Dian is the richly decorated Dragon Throne (Longyi), where the emperor would preside over his trembling officials.




Pagoda in the Imperial Garden. Huge old trees and Petrified wood in the Imperial Garden...