The Forbidden City: Why is it Also Called the Palace Museum?
The Forbidden City, a magnificent complex of palaces and courtyards in the heart of Beijing, stands as a powerful symbol of China's imperial past. While it is widely known by this intriguing name, many wonder why it is also referred to as the Palace Museum. To unravel this connection, we must delve into the dramatic historical events of the early 20th century.
In 1924, a pivotal event known as the "Beijing Coup" unfolded, forever altering the fate of the Forbidden City. Feng Yuxiang, a prominent warlord, seized control of Beijing, forcing the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, Puyi, to abdicate and leave his ancestral home. This marked the end of over two millennia of imperial rule in China and the beginning of a new chapter for the Forbidden City.
The following year, in 1925, a decision was made to transform this once-forbidden realm into a public museum. Thus, the Palace Museum was established within the walls of the former imperial palace. The name "故宫" (gùgōng) in Chinese literally translates to "former palace," directly referencing its previous role as the abode of emperors.
With this transformation, the Forbidden City, once the exclusive domain of the emperor and his court, opened its doors to the world. No longer the secluded "Purple Forbidden City" (紫禁城, Zǐjìnchéng) accessible only to a select few, it became a place where people from all walks of life could marvel at the grandeur and artistry of imperial China.
But why was it called the "Purple Forbidden City" in the first place? This name originates from ancient Chinese astronomy and cosmology. The North Star, known as the "Purple Star," was believed to be the celestial residence of the Celestial Emperor, the ruler of the heavens. The emperor on earth was seen as the Son of Heaven, and his earthly abode, the Forbidden City, was thus designed to mirror the celestial realm. Its location in the north, its use of the color purple (reserved for the emperor), and its status as a forbidden zone inaccessible to commoners all reinforced this symbolic connection to the heavens and the emperor's divine mandate to rule.
Today, the Palace Museum stands as a testament to China's rich cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors each year. It serves as a poignant reminder of a bygone era while showcasing the architectural prowess and artistic brilliance of imperial China.
Q&A:
1. What event led to the establishment of the Palace Museum?
A: The 1924 Beijing Coup, which resulted in the expulsion of the last emperor from the Forbidden City, paved the way for the establishment of the Palace Museum in 1925.
2. What is the meaning of the Chinese name "故宫" (gùgōng)?
A: "故宫" (gùgōng) translates directly to "former palace," reflecting its former status as the residence of emperors.
3. Why was the Forbidden City associated with the color purple?
A: In ancient Chinese astronomy, the North Star, referred to as the "Purple Star," was considered the celestial abode of the Celestial Emperor. The Forbidden City, as the earthly residence of the emperor (the Son of Heaven), adopted the color purple to reflect this celestial connection and the emperor's divine right to rule.