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The Palace Museum, known as the Forbidden City, is the world's largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex. Built in 1420, it served as home to 24 Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning traditional architecture and priceless cultural treasures.
A Timeless Imperial Masterpiece
The Palace Museum, commonly referred to as the Forbidden City, stands as one of the most magnificent architectural achievements in human history. Constructed between 1406-1420 during the Ming Dynasty, this sprawling complex served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties until 1912. Encompassing 72 hectares (180 acres) with over 980 surviving buildings containing more than 8,700 rooms, it represents the pinnacle of traditional Chinese palatial architecture.
Architectural Wonders
The Forbidden City's layout follows strict ancient Chinese cosmological principles, with all major structures arranged along a central north-south axis. The complex is divided into two main sections:
Key architectural highlights include:
Cultural Treasures
The Palace Museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 1.8 million artifacts spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history, including:
Visitor Experience
Practical Information:
Tips for Visitors:
Special Experiences:
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The Palace Museum offers an unparalleled journey through China's imperial past, where every courtyard, hall, and artifact tells a story of power, artistry, and tradition. This living museum continues to awe visitors with its scale, beauty, and historical significance, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting Beijing.