The Forbidden City, known as the Imperial Palace, is located in the heart of Beijing, China, and is accessible from 光明路 (Guangming Road). Spanning 180 acres, it served as the royal palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a quintessential example of traditional Chinese palatial architecture, characterized by its elaborate woodwork and vibrant colors.
One notable trivia about the Forbidden City is that it houses approximately 980 buildings with over 8,700 rooms. The layout follows strict principles of feng shui, signifying the emperor's central role in the universe. The central axis of the palace is meticulously aligned with the cardinal directions, reflecting the ancient Chinese belief in harmony between heaven and earth.
Another hidden fact is that the Forbidden City was also known as the "Palace Museum" after 1925, when it was converted into a museum, housing invaluable artifacts and artworks from Chinese history. Among its treasures are the world's largest collection of ancient ceramics, paintings, and Imperial treasures, including the famed Nine-Dragon Screen, and the Hall of Supreme Harmony, which is the largest wooden structure in the world.
The color scheme of the Forbidden City is significant; the predominant color is red, symbolizing happiness and good fortune. The roofs are adorned with yellow, a color reserved for the emperor. Interestingly, the number of roof ridges on a building signifies its importance; for example, the Hall of Supreme Harmony has 9 ridges, reflecting its status.
The watchtowers of the Forbidden City are another intriguing feature. There are four corner towers, each offering stunning views of the surrounding area. These towers served both aesthetic and defensive purposes, as they were strategically placed to provide a vantage point against potential invaders.
A lesser-known fact is that the Forbidden City was built using a staggering amount of materials. It is estimated that 1,000,000 wooden beams and 50,000 bricks were used in construction. The wood used is predominantly Chinese fir, which was chosen for its durability and resistance to decay.
Moreover, the Forbidden City is not only architecturally significant but also steeped in superstition. Certain areas were believed to be haunted, and the emperor would perform rituals to appease spirits. It is also said that the number of steps leading to the various halls is carefully calculated to maintain balance and harmony.
During the Cultural Revolution, many artifacts were vandalized or destroyed, leading to a significant loss of cultural heritage. However, restoration efforts began in the late 20th century, and the site continues to be a focal point for preserving Chinese history and culture.
The Forbidden City remains a symbol of Chinese imperial authority and grandeur, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to explore its vast history and architectural brilliance.