The Forbidden City, Beijing: Imperial Palace, UNESCO Site & Cultural Icon

The Forbidden City (故宫, Gùgōng) in central Beijing was the imperial palace of China's Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties. Today it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's best-preserved ancient palaces.

Key Facts

• Built: 1406–1420 under the Yongle Emperor.
• Area: ~720,000 m² (178 acres); 980+ buildings.
• Layout: Strict north–south axis; symmetrical courtyards, halls, gates, pavilions.
• Highlights: Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony (largest wooden structure), Palace of Heavenly Purity (emperor's residence).
• Museum since 1925: Houses imperial art, artifacts, paintings, furnishings.
• Visitors: Millions annually—top cultural attraction in China.

It embodies 500+ years of imperial power, Chinese architectural mastery, and enduring cultural identity.