Meridian Gate

Welcome to the Forbidden City. You are standing before the Meridian Gate, the main entrance to the world's largest palace complex. Built in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, this massive U-shaped gate rises 38 meters above the ground. For over 500 years, only the emperor could pass through the central archway. Officials entered through the side gates, ranked by seniority. From the balcony above, emperors announced new calendars, celebrated military victories, and issued imperial decrees. Notice the five arched openings — they represent the five Confucian virtues. During the Qing Dynasty, prisoners of war were presented here in elaborate ceremonies. Today, you walk through the same gate that once welcomed emperors. Take a moment to look up at the yellow-glazed roof tiles — a color reserved exclusively for the imperial family.