This complex was built by the emperors of Ming Dynasty to hold the heaven worship ceremonies. The whole place covers an approximately 900,000 sq ft area which is divided into two major parts: the south and the north. The southern part is square in shape and higher than the other part, which represents the heaven. On the other hand, the northern part is semicircular in shape, symbolizing the Earth. In fact, this ancient site is 2 times larger than the Forbidden City.
It was in 1988 when the temple was opened and served as the park for public.
The palace has two major buildings:
1. Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
2. Imperial Hall of Heaven
Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
The hall is a round structure made up of wooden frame with some columns and rafters depicting specific meanings. The roof has three layers, each of which has blue-colored decorations. Furthermore, this structure is 125 feet high with a diameter of 105 feet situated on a platform made of marble. The platform is called 'The Altar for Grain Prayers,' composing of three levels. Each is surrounded by marble railings and connected by staircases embellished with some blocks of stones.
Imperial Vault of Heaven (Imperial Hall of Heaven)
Initially, it was built as the hall of Celestial Treasure House of the Circular Mound Altar in 1530 during Ming Dynasty. Then it was renamed after 8 years as the Imperial Vault of Heaven. This structure stored God's tablets to be used at the ceremony praying for heaven.
The hall is made up of wooden structure, roof with blue tiles, and blue-green ceiling with some coiling dragons and a pearl in the middle as the design.
It was in 1988 when the temple was opened and served as the park for public.
photo courtesy of willgoto
Fasting Palace
Also known as the Palace of Abstinence, was built in1420 during Ming Dynasty. The place was used by the emperors to do abstinence from drinking, meat, music, women, and other state affairs 3 days before doing the sacrificial rituals at the temple.
1. Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
2. Imperial Hall of Heaven
Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
The hall is a round structure made up of wooden frame with some columns and rafters depicting specific meanings. The roof has three layers, each of which has blue-colored decorations. Furthermore, this structure is 125 feet high with a diameter of 105 feet situated on a platform made of marble. The platform is called 'The Altar for Grain Prayers,' composing of three levels. Each is surrounded by marble railings and connected by staircases embellished with some blocks of stones.
Initially, it was built as the hall of Celestial Treasure House of the Circular Mound Altar in 1530 during Ming Dynasty. Then it was renamed after 8 years as the Imperial Vault of Heaven. This structure stored God's tablets to be used at the ceremony praying for heaven.
The hall is made up of wooden structure, roof with blue tiles, and blue-green ceiling with some coiling dragons and a pearl in the middle as the design.
Otther attractions inside the palace
Echo Wall
It is a wall encircling the Imperial Vault of Heaven. The sound waves can continuously travel along the hard and smooth surface of the wall. You can try this by standing at the back of West Annex Hall with another person behind the opposite hall. Both of you can hear your own voice vividly.
Firewood Stove
It is a large brick stone glazed with green color, used to burn the sacrifice such as cattle before the ceremony of praying for harvests started.
This ritual is performed in order to welcome the God of Heaven. Then, another ritual would be performed by the emperor by watching other offerings being burned in the stove.
Cypress trees in the palace
Locals having fun at the park while Chinese music is being played
Admission Fee: 10 - 15 RMB (the price varies according to season)
Schedule: 6:00am to 10:00pm
How to get there:
By subway- take line 5, then get off at Tiantan East Station
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