Forbidden city

The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, China, is one of the most significant and well-preserved imperial palaces in the world. It served as the political and ceremonial center of Chinese dynasties for nearly 500 years, from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. The Forbidden City is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the imperial power and culture of ancient China.

Origins and Construction

  • Yongle Emperor and the Ming Dynasty: The construction of the Forbidden City began in 1406 under the orders of the Yongle Emperor, the third emperor of the Ming dynasty. The Yongle Emperor had moved the capital of China from Nanjing to Beijing and wanted to establish a grand palace complex that would serve as the new political center of his empire.

  • Architectural Design: The Forbidden City was designed following the principles of traditional Chinese palatial architecture, which emphasized symmetry, hierarchy, and harmony with the natural environment. The layout of the Forbidden City reflects the cosmological principles of feng shui, with the palace aligned along a north-south axis.

  • Construction Process: The construction of the Forbidden City took 14 years, from 1406 to 1420, and involved hundreds of thousands of workers, including skilled artisans, laborers, and engineers. Materials were sourced from all over China, including rare woods from the jungles of the south and marble from nearby quarries. The complex was constructed using traditional techniques, with wooden structures, glazed tiles, and intricate carvings.

Structure and Layout

  • Scale and Dimensions: The Forbidden City covers approximately 180 acres (72 hectares) and consists of 980 surviving buildings with around 8,700 rooms. The palace complex is surrounded by a large moat and a defensive wall, with four gates providing access to the interior.

  • Inner and Outer Courts: The Forbidden City is divided into two main sections: the Outer Court (or Front Court) and the Inner Court (or Back Court). The Outer Court was used for ceremonial purposes, such as imperial audiences and official state events, while the Inner Court served as the residence of the emperor and his family.

Modern History and Preservation

  • Republican Era: After the fall of the Qing dynasty, the Forbidden City was transformed into a public museum, opening its doors to visitors in 1925. The palace complex, now known as the Palace Museum, became a symbol of China's rich cultural heritage.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1987, the Forbidden City was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unparalleled architectural and historical significance. It is considered one of the most important cultural landmarks in the world.

The Forbidden City remains a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Chinese civilization, standing as a monument to the country's historical legacy and cultural continuity.

Year: 2017 | Equipment: Canon EOS REBEL T2i