Hall of Supreme Harmony - Most Important Building in Forbidden City

After built in 1406 during the Ming Dynasty and was completed in 1420, it was burned to the ground within months of its dedication. The Jiajing Emperor (r. 1522-1566) renamed it the Hall of Imperial Supremacy, and upon making Beijing the capital, the Qing rulers quickly changed to the present name. Its name reflects the significant sociopolitical ideal of universal harmony under heaven. The current building was reconstructed during the Kangxi era (1662-1722).

Its purpose was clear: to be the symbolic center of imperial power, and the stage for enthronements, weddings, and other grand ceremonies. Over the centuries, the hall has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, each era leaving its mark on the building. The Qing Dynasty, in particular, undertook extensive renovations, resulting in the ornate and majestic appearance we see today.

The Hall of Supreme Harmony is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture, embodying the principles of harmony, balance, and hierarchy. Its imposing size, intricate wooden structure, and grand scale reflect the emperor's supreme authority. The hall sits on a three-tiered marble platform, symbolizing the emperor's elevation above the people. The use of yellow tiles, the imperial color, further reinforces the building's significance.

The hall's interior is equally awe-inspiring. Elaborately carved wooden beams and columns, adorned with colorful paintings and gilded dragons, create a breathtaking spectacle. The throne, a symbol of imperial power, is the focal point of the hall. Its intricate craftsmanship and rich symbolism are a testament to the skill of the artisans who created it.

The Hall of Supreme Harmony is not merely a building; it is a treasure trove of cultural artifacts. The surrounding courtyard, for instance, once held ceremonial objects such as the sundial, grain measure, and bronze animals. These artifacts, now housed in museums, offer visitors a glimpse into the daily rituals of the imperial court.

While the hall's interior has been stripped of its original furnishings during tumultuous times, its sheer scale and the ornate decorations on the ceiling and walls are still breathtaking. As you stand in the center of this vast space, you can imagine the opulence and grandeur of the ceremonies that once took place here. The hall's acoustics are legendary, designed to amplify the emperor's voice during ceremonies. However, in order to protect cultural relics, the internal area of the Hall of Supreme Harmony is not open to the public, and you can still experience it through multimedia.