10 Fascinating Facts About the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, stands as a magnificent testament to China's imperial past. Nestled in the heart of Beijing, this sprawling palace complex whispers tales of emperors and empires, intrigue and grandeur. But beyond its breathtaking beauty lie intriguing secrets and captivating stories. Here are 10 fascinating facts about the Forbidden City that will transport you back in time:
Fact 1: Why Was It Called the Forbidden City?
The name "Forbidden City" is a direct translation of the Chinese name " Zijin Cheng," meaning "Purple Forbidden City." The "forbidden" aspect stemmed from the fact that the city was the exclusive domain of the emperor and his inner circle. Commoners were strictly prohibited from entering without explicit permission. This exclusivity reinforced the emperor's position as the Son of Heaven, ruling with divine mandate.
Fact 2: Yellow — the Holy Color Was Reserved for Chinese Emperors.
Step into the Forbidden City, and you'll be awash in a sea of yellow – from the glazed roof tiles to the intricate decorations. This wasn't a random aesthetic choice. Yellow, representing the earth, was considered the most noble color in ancient China and was exclusively reserved for the emperor. Using it in the Forbidden City symbolized the emperor's power and his position at the center of the universe. This color association further emphasized the emperor's exalted status.
Fact 3: There Was Still 40 Percent of the Forbidden City That Remained Unopened in 2017.
Despite being a major tourist attraction, a significant portion of the Forbidden City remained shrouded in mystery until recently. As of 2017, approximately 40% of the palace complex was still closed to the public. This was largely due to ongoing preservation and restoration efforts aimed at protecting the fragile structures from further deterioration. The closed sections fueled speculation and imagination, adding to the allure of the Forbidden City as a place of hidden secrets.
Fact 4: It Was a Huge Construction Project, Which Lasted for 15 Years.
The construction of the Forbidden City was a monumental undertaking, spanning 15 years, from 1406 to 1420. This massive project demanded the labor of over a million workers, including skilled artisans, laborers, and even prisoners. The sheer scale of the construction reflects the Ming Dynasty's immense wealth and power, highlighting their desire to create a palace complex that would symbolize their imperial might.
Fact 5: 9,999 Rooms Tell a Symbolic Story.
The Forbidden City boasts a staggering number of rooms – 9,999, to be precise. This number wasn't arbitrary. In Chinese cosmology, 10,000 represented infinity and was associated with Heaven, the realm of the gods. By building 9,999 rooms, the emperor positioned himself just below Heaven, signifying his status as the Son of Heaven, appointed by the divine, but not surpassing it.
Fact 6: The Palace Was Designed to be Impregnable.
Security was paramount in the Forbidden City. Surrounded by a 52-meter-wide moat and a 10-meter-high wall, the complex was designed as an impenetrable fortress. It had only four heavily guarded gates and was patrolled by the Imperial Guard, ensuring the safety of the emperor and his court. This meticulous attention to security underscores the constant threat of rebellion and invasion faced by the ruling dynasty.
Fact 7: It Was the Heart of the Chinese Empire for Nearly 500 Years.
From the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, the Forbidden City served as the political and ceremonial center of China for almost 500 years. It was here that emperors conducted state affairs, received foreign dignitaries, and celebrated important festivals. This continuous use cemented its place as a powerful symbol of imperial authority and the enduring legacy of China's dynastic past.
Fact 8: The Forbidden City Survived 200 Earthquakes.
The Forbidden City's resilience is evident in its ability to withstand natural disasters, including over 200 recorded earthquakes. This is a testament to the ingenuity of its architects and builders, who employed sophisticated construction techniques and high-quality materials to ensure its structural integrity.
Fact 9: It's Home to a Treasure Trove of Nearly a Million Artifacts.
The Forbidden City houses an astonishing collection of almost a million artifacts, ranging from imperial robes and exquisite porcelain to calligraphy scrolls and ancient weaponry. This vast collection provides an invaluable glimpse into the lives of the imperial family and the artistic brilliance of different eras.
Fact 10: The Palace Museum: Preserving a Legacy.
Today, the Forbidden City is home to the Palace Museum, established in 1925. This institution is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of the Forbidden City, attracting millions of visitors each year. It serves as a vital link to China's past, educating present and future generations about the grandeur and intricacies of imperial China.
Q&A:
Q: Why is the Forbidden City painted yellow?
A: Yellow was considered the most noble color in ancient China and was reserved exclusively for the emperor. The extensive use of yellow in the Forbidden City symbolized the emperor's power and his position at the center of the universe.
Q: When did the Forbidden City cease to be the political center of China?
A: The Forbidden City ceased to be the political center of China in 1912 with the abdication of the last emperor, Puyi, marking the end of the Qing Dynasty.
Q: Apart from earthquakes, what other threats has the Forbidden City faced throughout its history?
A: The Forbidden City has faced numerous threats, including fires, wars, and looting. Notably, it was partially burned down by rebellious peasants in 1644 and narrowly escaped destruction during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900.