The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, China, is one of the world's most iconic and historically significant architectural wonders. This sprawling complex, also known as the Imperial Palace, served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years and remains a symbol of China’s imperial history and culture. With over 900 buildings and more than 8,700 rooms, the Forbidden City is a monumental achievement in architecture and a treasure trove of Chinese history. For centuries, the Forbidden City was off-limits to the public, accessible only to the emperor, his family, and select officials, hence the name "Forbidden" City. Today, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as one of the most visited cultural landmarks globally, drawing millions of tourists annually. In this article, we will explore 7 intriguing facts about the Forbidden City that reveal its secrets, history, and significance.
1. The Forbidden City’s Massive Size and Layout
The first thing that strikes visitors to the Forbidden City is its immense size. Covering approximately 180 acres (72 hectares) of land, the Forbidden City is one of the largest palace complexes in the world. Its construction began in 1406 during the Ming Dynasty under Emperor Yongle, and it took 14 years to complete, finishing in 1420. The palace is made up of nearly 1,000 buildings, including halls, gardens, courtyards, and 9999 rooms - the number that symbolizes power and happiness. It is also enclosed by a massive 10-meter-high wall and a 52-meter-wide moat, designed to keep outsiders away and create a sense of imperial grandeur.
The layout of the Forbidden City is meticulously planned and deeply symbolic, with each structure serving a specific purpose. The palace complex is divided into two main sections: the Outer Court and the Inner Court. The Outer Court was used for ceremonial and political functions, while the Inner Court was the private residential area for the emperor, his family, and the court officials. The division of space within the Forbidden City follows the principles of feng shui and Chinese cosmology, with a strong emphasis on hierarchy and order.
The design of the Forbidden City also reflects the ancient Chinese belief in the emperor as the “Son of Heaven’. The main axis of the complex runs north-south, with the emperor’s throne at the northern end, symbolizing his connection to the heavens. The central courtyard of the Forbidden City is framed by the largest and most important halls, while the surrounding areas, including the gardens and palaces, are arranged more intimately and serenely. This careful balance of grandeur and serenity is a defining feature of the Forbidden City’s architecture.
2. The Forbidden City’s Exclusion of Commoners
The Forbidden City was not just an imperial palace— it was also a symbol of the emperor’s absolute power and authority. As such, it was exclusively reserved for the emperor, his family, and his closest advisors. For centuries, commoners were not allowed to enter the palace under any circumstances, hence the name "Forbidden City." The area surrounding the Forbidden City was also carefully controlled. A massive 10-meter-high wall surrounded the complex, making it an impenetrable fortress. Even the architecture of the Forbidden City reflected this sense of exclusion, with towering walls, expansive gates, and intricate designs that created a sense of mystery and separation.
The Forbidden City was home to not only the emperor and his family but also thousands of servants, concubines, court officials, and military guards. These individuals lived within the walls of the palace, but their access to certain areas was strictly regulated. The emperor’s harem, for example, was hidden from view and housed in a secluded section of the Forbidden City. Only the emperor and his closest confidants had the privilege of moving freely throughout the complex.
Even during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), when the Forbidden City was the residence of the last imperial family of China, it remained largely off-limits to the public. Visitors were allowed to approach the outer courtyards and gates, but the inner sanctum of the palace, where the emperor and his family resided, was closed to outsiders. This exclusionary aspect of the Forbidden City only deepened its allure and mystique, as it became the ultimate symbol of imperial power and seclusion.
3. The Symbolism Behind the Architecture and Decorations
Every detail of the Forbidden City’s design, from the layout of the buildings to the decorative elements, is imbued with rich symbolism. The Forbidden City is designed to reflect traditional Chinese cosmology and the hierarchical structure of Chinese society. For example, the use of color is highly symbolic in Chinese culture, and it plays a crucial role in the design of the Forbidden City. The color yellow, for instance, was considered the most auspicious color in ancient China and was reserved exclusively for the emperor. The roofs of the main halls are covered in yellow glazed tiles, symbolizing the emperor’s unique status as the ruler of the world.
The Forbidden City is also known for its intricate woodwork and decorative elements, many of which are adorned with motifs of dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures. The dragon, in particular, is a symbol of imperial power and authority. The emperor’s throne, located in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, is adorned with dragon motifs, emphasizing the emperor’s role as the "Dragon Throne."
The architecture of the Forbidden City is heavily influenced by the principles of feng shui, which emphasizes harmony with nature. The use of water, particularly the large moat that surrounds the palace, is intended to create balance and protect the palace from negative energy. The walls and gates are designed to align with celestial and earthly forces, reinforcing the emperor’s divine right to rule.
In addition to its architectural symbolism, the Forbidden City is home to thousands of priceless works of art, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and sculptures. These works of art were carefully selected to reflect the emperor’s taste and to reinforce his role as a patron of the arts and a symbol of Chinese culture.
4. The Forbidden City’s Role in Chinese History
The Forbidden City was not just a residence for the emperor—it was also the center of political power in China for nearly 500 years. From the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, the Forbidden City served as the seat of government, where imperial decisions were made, and important ceremonies were held. It was the stage for grand imperial events, such as the emperor’s ascension to the throne, the signing of treaties, and the hosting of foreign dignitaries.
The Forbidden City also played a significant role in the development of Chinese culture, science, and philosophy. The imperial court was a center of intellectual activity, and scholars, artists, and scientists were often invited to work within the palace walls. The Forbidden City housed vast libraries, observatories, and art galleries, contributing to the cultural richness of China’s imperial period.
During the Qing Dynasty, the Forbidden City was a place of great political intrigue. Power struggles, assassinations, and palace coups were not uncommon within the palace walls. The most famous of these was the Empress Dowager Cixi’s rise to power. After the death of her husband, Emperor Xianfeng, Cixi effectively controlled the Qing Empire for nearly half a century, using her influence within the Forbidden City to shape the future of China.
With the fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1912 and the establishment of the Republic of China, the Forbidden City’s role as the seat of power came to an end. In 1925, it was transformed into the Palace Museum, opening its doors to the public for the first time in centuries.
5. The Treasures of the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is not only an architectural wonder; it also houses a vast collection of cultural treasures. The Palace Museum, established in the Forbidden City in 1925, is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Chinese art in the world. The museum’s collection includes over 1.8 million items, ranging from ancient jade artifacts to imperial robes, ancient scrolls, and delicate ceramics. These items are invaluable not only for their artistic beauty but also for their historical significance.
One of the most famous treasures in the Forbidden City is the collection of imperial seals, which were used by the emperor to authorize official documents. These seals, which are made of jade, wood, or metal, are highly symbolic and serve as a mark of the emperor’s absolute power. Another significant treasure is the extensive collection of ancient Chinese calligraphy, including works by famous poets and artists from the Tang and Song Dynasties.
The Forbidden City is also home to some of China’s most famous imperial paintings, including works by renowned artists like Zhang Daqian and Qi Baishi. These paintings not only showcase the skills of the artists but also provide insight into the cultural and political life of the imperial court.
Over the centuries, the treasures of the Forbidden City have survived wars, rebellions, and even foreign invasions. During the Boxer Rebellion of 1900, many of the treasures were at risk of being looted or destroyed. However, the treasures managed to survive, largely due to the protection provided by the imperial guards and loyal servants.
6. The Forbidden City’s Enduring Mystique
Even though the Forbidden City is now a museum and a major tourist attraction, it still retains a sense of mystery and intrigue. The palace’s size and intricate design evoke a sense of awe, and its long history adds to its allure. Over the years, many visitors have marveled at its vastness, its stunning beauty, and the sense of timelessness that pervades the palace.
There are countless legends and stories about the Forbidden City, some of which are based on real events, while others are pure myths. One popular legend is that the Forbidden City was designed to be a miniature version of the entire Chinese empire, with its buildings and layout representing the different regions of the country. Another story suggests that the emperor’s tomb is hidden somewhere within the Forbidden City, although it has never been found.
Despite the modernity of the 21st century, the Forbidden City continues to captivate the imaginations of visitors from around the world. Its history, its artistry, and its enduring mystique make it one of the most fascinating landmarks in the world.
7. The Forbidden City’s Influence on Modern Architecture
The architectural style of the Forbidden City has had a profound impact on Chinese architecture, inspiring numerous palaces, government buildings, and temples throughout the country. The principles of symmetry, hierarchy, and feng shui that define the Forbidden City have been adopted in the design of many other iconic structures, both in China and abroad.
In Beijing, the Forbidden City’s influence can be seen in the design of the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace. Beyond Beijing, elements of the Forbidden City’s design have been incorporated into the construction of buildings in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and even countries like Japan and South Korea, where Chinese architectural traditions have influenced local styles.
Even in the modern era, the Forbidden City continues to inspire architects and designers around the world. Its emphasis on balance, harmony, and grandeur has made it a model for buildings that aspire to convey a sense of power, beauty, and permanence.
Conclusion
The Forbidden City remains an enduring symbol of China’s imperial past, a testament to the grandeur of Chinese architecture, culture, and history. Its vastness, its treasures, and its role in shaping China’s history make it one of the most fascinating and significant landmarks in the world. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or someone simply intrigued by the mysteries of ancient empires, the Forbidden City offers a wealth of stories waiting to be discovered. For those eager to explore the rich history and breathtaking architecture of the Forbidden City firsthand, China tours offer an immersive experience, allowing visitors to uncover its hidden stories, intricate designs, and cultural significance while navigating the expansive grounds of this monumental treasure.