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| Tian An Men Square |
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Tian An Men (Gate of Heavenly Peace) was the main entrance to the
Forbidden City during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Built in 1417,
it was first named the Cheng Tian Men, meaning that emperors obeyed
the order of Heaven in ruling the country. Destroyed by fire twice,
it was rebuilt in 1651 during the Qing Dynasty and renamed Tian
An Men. It is also honored as the "Gate of the Nation."
During the Ming and Qing Dynasties grand ceremonies were held at
Tian An Men. Composed of the rostrum and gate tower, the building
is 34.7 meters high and has five watchtowers. Supported by nine
huge columns, the building has a splendid colorful roof of glazed
tiles. With painted pillars and carved beams, the hall of Tian An
Men Rostrum looks majestic. Sixty huge columns, representing the
Earthly Branches designate years, months, days and hours and the
Heavenly stems to designate marks of order, stand in perfect harmony
to demonstrate the permanent stability of the nation. Tian An Men,
a masterpiece of China's ancient architectural art, represents the
superb skill and artistic talent of the Chinese people.
As one of the largest city squares in the world, Tian An Men Square
occupies an area of 440, 000 square meters--spacious enough to accommodate
half a million people. Many annual and special celebrations and
assemblies are held here.
On October 1st, 1949, Chairman Mao Ze Dong declared the founding
of the People's Republic of China on the Tian An Men Rostrum, thus
opening a new chapter in the history of China. In the new period
of reforms and opening, Tian An Men, with its long history and rich
culture, attracts people from all over the world. |
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