04/01/2025
🏯 **Step into Imperial China at the Forbidden City** 🏯
Did you know:
-- The Forbidden City in Beijing is the world’s largest palace complex
-- Covers 178 acres with over 980 buildings
-- Built between 1406 and 1420
-- Depending what is counted as a room, there are between 8,707 and 9,371 rooms
-- A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties for nearly 500 years, and 24 Emperors.
Marvel at the golden roofs, intricate carvings, and vivid red and yellow colors throughout, symbolic of power and prosperity.
The Hall of Supreme Harmony is a must-see—its grand scale and ornate detail reflect the emperor’s unrivaled authority.
Everything you encounter in the complex has a meaning, purpose or a message conveyed. Supreme authority, might and wealth of the Emperor in the forecourts and ceremonial halls. This is as far as any outsiders could have ever ventured.
In the working and private areas of the palace, personal refinement, wealth of the family feature. But so does tranquility, the seeking of wisdom and clear thinking needed to be a ruler or imperial advisor.
🌟 **Travel Tip:** Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and perfect light for photos. Don’t forget to explore the peaceful Imperial Garden at the northern end or stop and enjoy the many small gardens tucked into the complex.
We dwell on Roman history but the history of China, and Asia, is no less fascinating.
One illustration? At Rome's apex in the 1st Century CE, roughly 65 million were within the Roman Empire. In China's 1st Century CE Han period, also around 65 million and what is now India, 75 million.
Ready to explore this architectural masterpiece? Let’s plan your journey to China’s fascinating past, or wherever you have in mind!
🌐 Visit www.avidnomadtravel.com to start your adventure, learn more about Avid Nomad Travel, explore the free downloads or to get in touch with your 2025 or 2026 travel plan!
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