The Temple of Heaven, China
The Temple of Heaven in Beijing's south is China's greatest existing complex of ancient sacrificial buildings. It covers 273 hectares, which is three times the size of the Forbidden City. It was constructed in 1420 to let emperors worship Heaven. Surrounded by lush foliage, these wonderful antique temples and shrines are divided into two portions – one rectangular, the other semi-circular – that represent Heaven and Earth, respectively. The main structures are the Altar of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar.
The 38-meter-high and 30-meter-diameter Altar of Prayer for Good Harvest rises on a spherical foundation made of three tiers of marble stones. This colossal triple-eave hall is under construction.
Address: 1 Tiantan E Road, Dongcheng Beijing
