The Temple of Heaven which is also known as the Altar of Heaven, is located in south-eastern urban Beijing. It is considered the most holy of the imperial temples in Beijing. The temple is also recognised as a one of a kind masterpiece of architecture and design.
Built in 1420 A.D, the Temple of Heaven occupies a total land area of about 2,700,000 square meters. This unique and inspiring temple was constructed during the famous Ming Dynasty with the purpose of making offerings to heaven.
This impressive temple is built within a long wall of which the northern part is semicircular signifying the heavens. The southern facet of the wall is square shaped depicting the earth. This design also reveals the ancient Chinese belief that heaven is round and earth is square. The temple is separated in to two distinct parts by a wall as the inner and outer part.
The most outstanding buildings within the temple include the Imperial Vault of Heaven, The Circular Mound Altar and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest also known as Qiniandian.
The Circular Altar was used by ancient emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties to offer sacrifice to Heaven in order to ensure a prosperous future. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest is a massive round palace with 28 large posts. Each part of the temple has been built with immense meaning. For instance, each of the 28 posts at The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest comes with a different meaning.
The Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest is linked with each other by the Vermilion Steps Bridge. The three Echo Stones positioned right outside the gateway of the Imperial Vault of Heaven is also a unique feature.
All these architectural masterpieces and much more can be witnessed and explored at the sacred and historically acclaimed Temple of Heaven. The best way to visit the temple is to stay at a nearby Beijing hotel. Grand Millennium Beijing is an outstanding Beijing accommodation that offers comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travellers alike.