China has been growing at an incredible rate for the last several decades and today with the focus of the Olympics and their huge economy and manufacturing sector many Westerners are once again focused on this world giant. China offers to many Westerners exotic culture and architecture. In fact, one of its landmarks- the Forbidden City is now becoming one of China’s most popular tourist attractions.
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City has always been surrounded with mystery and intrigue. In fact, it is called the Forbidden City because no person could either leave or enter this palace without the permission from the emperor. And while it was well known throughout the world, many have always been fascinated at what is exactly inside and just what goes on in this magnificent palace.
The Largest Palace in the World
The Forbidden City is known as the largest palace in the world. Located on 178 acres in Beijing the Forbidden City was built during the 15th century with the labor of more than a million men along with about 100,000 artisans. It took less than 15 years to build this masterpiece and one of the most incredible facts about this palace is that it reportedly has 9,999 rooms and an astonishing one million pieces of precious art. The Forbidden City served as the seat for the Ming Dynasty, upon its completion in 1420, a total of 24 emperors have called the Forbidden City home. The last emperor ruled from this palace up until 1912.
The Forbidden City is Now Open to All
The Forbidden City, once a great palace later became a museum that was closed off to all foreigners. However, over the last 30 years foreigners have been invited and welcomed to enter the great walls of the Forbidden City to see all that this incredible landmark now a World Heritage Site has to offer. Since being open to all, millions have flocked to see this great architectural and cultural achievement.
For those that are interested in either visiting the Forbidden City or finding out about all the amazing art and architectural delights found inside, the Smithsonian Magazine has an interesting article on the subject. To read more about this incredible landmark, please visit our main website at the following link: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/
Quincy Jones, Forbidden City, Glacier National Park, Wrigley Field
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