The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a must-visit architectural and cultural landmark located in the heart of Beijing, China. With a history of over 600 years, it served as the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties, welcoming 24 emperors to rule China from the early 15th century to the early 20th century. Being dubbed “The Palace Museum,” it boasts an extensive collection of valuable treasures and artworks from China’s past, making it an educational and informative destination for tourists from around the world. Let us dive into the Forbidden City’s history and explore its fascinating characteristics and unique features.故宫导游词
The first building inside the Forbidden City is known as the Meridian Gate, which was the main entrance for the emperors and their retinues. It was named after the meridian line that ran through the city, dividing it into the north and south sections. Wandering around the courtyards of the Meridian Gate, you can find ancient bronze vessels, carved stone and jade tablets, and intricately painted wood and lacquerware.
Beyond the Meridian Gate, stands the Gate of Supreme Harmony, which marks the entrance to the palace's core. It is the largest and tallest door in the Forbidden City, designed to display the emperor's majesty and prowess. Built in 1420, the gate is adorned with ornate carvings, vivid paintings, and gilt sculptures. The square in front of the gate was the site of important ceremonies, such as the emperor's enthronement, and was also where the court meted out punishment.
The Hall of Supreme Harmony stands at the center of the palace, also known as the throne hall, where the emperor received court officials to discuss state affairs and to handle state affairs himself. The hall stretches over sixty feet high, and its roof is supported by 72 massive pillars that depict dragons and phoenixes in gold relief. The hall is also home to the imperial dragon throne, a magnificent structure crafted from precious rosewood, jade, and ivory. The throne is meticulously decorated with symbols representing wealth, good health, and success.
The Hall of Central Harmony is a smaller building located behind the Hall of Supreme Har
mony. It was where the emperor prepared to receive an audience, which included rehearsing speeches and engaging in private meditation. The decoration of the building is more modest than that of its grandiose predecessor, but still, it boasts intricate ceilings and grand pillars that exemplify the Ming and Qing dynasty’s architectural style.
The Hall of Preserving Harmony stands at the northern end of the palace and served as the site for grand banquets and performances to commemorate important events or foreign dignitaries' visits. The hall was also used for grand imperial examinations, which were crucial tests for those aspiring to become officials. Since these exams could last for several days, the hall was equipped with restrooms, dining rooms, and living quarters.
The Palace of Heavenly Purity consisted of a series of connected buildings which served as emperors' personal residence, where they lived with their families, conducted daily business, and attended banquets. It is the largest of the three residential buildings in the palace, with more than one hundred rooms.
Finally, the Imperial Garden is a classic Chinese garden nestled in the magnificent palace'
s northern corner. The garden features serene bodies of water, leafy trees, and a variety of ancient pavilions and flowers. It was the place where the emperors could relax, meditate, and appreciate the tranquillity of nature.
The Forbidden City is a perfect example of the grandeur and architectural sophistication of China's past, and millions of tourists visit it each year to be transported back in time. Its buildings, treasures, and artworks remind us of the country's rich history, and its impact on the world, making it a vital part of China's national heritage.
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