Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven was built in 1420 as the place where the Ming and Qing emperors would pay homage to the god of heaven. Known as "the Son of Heaven," the emperor served as an intermediary for the people and the heavens.

Another huge complex, it was occupied by Western troops in the 1860s and 1900 (during the Boxer Rebellion) and significant damage was done during these events. The result is that much restoration has had to be done.

At top, you can see me standing on the "heart of heaven" where the emperor might stand when praying to the heavens. The site is designed so that, if it were quiet, your voice would be reflected from the marble ring surrounding the circular mount altar. Next are the students beginning to climb the staircase where the altar is located. Next, the Imperial Vault of Heaven. At bottom is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a really grand building built entirely without nails.