The Chinese culture is quite different from the West. Throughout millennia, the Chinese have beat to a different drummer and created incredible beauties both in art, culture, philosophy, etc that have inspired, yet continue to be an enigma to many in the West. For those that are fascinated by the people, architecture and culture of China, one landmark that continues to evoke inspiration and amazement is the Forbidden City.
The Enigma of the Forbidden City
For centuries, the Forbidden City was a mystery. In fact, while many have heard of the city, only few ever entered inside it. The Forbidden City is actually a palace compound built for the Chinese emperors. It got its name because no one could enter or leave the compound without the Emperors consent. The Forbidden City walled exterior is extremely formidable and for centuries it was a very guarded secret what was actually inside the City’s walls.
The Largest Palace in the World
The Forbidden City is not only one of the most mysterious landmarks ever constructed, but also the largest palace in the world. Incredibly, the Forbidden City offers 9,999 rooms and an inconceivable one million pieces of fine art- many priceless. The Forbidden City was built during the 15th century with a labor force that rivaled one million laborers including about 100,000 skilled artisans. It was constructed to be the seat for the Ming Dynasty and completed in 1420. During the centuries, the Forbidden City was home for a total of 24 emperors, the last being in 1912.
The Forbidden City Opens her Gates
The Forbidden City while closed off to the world for about 500 years has now opened her gates for tourists to view. No longer is the Forbidden City a highly guarded secret. In fact just 30 years ago, the palace now a museum and garden is open for all to see. In addition, the Forbidden City has been designated a World Heritage Site and since opening her gates to both Chinese citizens and world toursits, millions have visited this incredible landmark.
Read More About the Forbidden City
If you are intrigued by the Forbidden City and the mystery it holds, you will definitely want to read the Smithsonian Magazine’s article on the subject. You can visit our main website and learn more about this masterpiece today, simply follow the link: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/
Daredevil, Forbidden City, Parthenon, Diane Arbus, Quincy Jones, Black Holes
No comments:
Post a Comment