The Forbidden City Postcards
As the imperial palace of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, the Forbidden City is the largest ancient architectural complex in China. In 1987 it was put on the World Heritage List by UNESCO. Construction of the Forbidden City began in 1407, the fifth year of the Yongle reign period of the Ming Dynasty, and was completed in 1420. Covering an area of 72 ha, it has more than 9,000 rooms. Over a period of five centuries, a total of 24 emperors lived and reigned here.
The square in front of the Gate of Supreme Harmony
A watchtower of the Forbidden City
The Hall of Supreme Harmony
The Hall of Supreme Harmony
The Interweaving Cypress Trees
A portrait of Emperor Qianlong (reigned 1736-1796) of the Qing dynasty
The Gate of Divine Prowess
Inside the Palace of Heavenly Purity
The Hill of Accumulated Elegance
