Temple of Heaven

The temple of heaven was the place where the Emperor of the Ming and Qing dynasties would worship heaven and pray for good harvests. Built first in 1420, and then expanded and reconstructed, the Temple of Heaven is a precious example of China 's ancient architectural art and the largest architectural structure for worshipping heaven in the world.

The architecture and layout of the temple of heaven is based on elaborate symbolism and numerology. In accordance with principles dating back to pre-Confucian times, the buildings in the Temple of Heaven are round, like the sky, while the foundations and axis of the complex are rectilinear, like the earth. The most prominent building in the temple's complex is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. 38.2 meters (125 ft) in height and 24.2 metes (79 ft) in diameter, it is supported by immense pillars. The painted roof has 50,000 blue glazed tiles and a golden point.