The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient palaces in the world. Built between 1406 and 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, it served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties over nearly 500 years. Covering an area of 72 hectares, the complex includes more than 980 buildings with over 8,700 rooms, showcasing traditional Chinese architectural principles such as symmetry, hierarchy, and feng shui. Its layout reflects Confucian ideals and cosmic order, with the central axis symbolizing the emperor’s divine authority. Visitors can explore iconic structures like the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Imperial Garden, and the Palace Museum, which houses thousands of artifacts from China’s imperial past. The site offers profound insights into Chinese civilization, art, politics, and philosophy. For a meaningful visit, it's recommended to hire a guided tour or use an audio guide to fully appreciate the historical depth and symbolic details. Don’t miss the early morning hours when crowds are thinner and the light enhances the grandeur of the red walls and golden roofs.
