On show are the best examples of Chinese architecture, engineering and traditional artistry. It holds over 1.86 million rare and valuable artworks, including ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, bronze ware, timepieces, ancient books and historical documents.

In 1406, Zhu Di, the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), proposed moving the national capital from Nanjing, capital of today’s Jiangsu province, to Beijing, where he once resided as a prince and could better safeguard the northern frontiers.

The complex was completed in 1420, after about 10 years of preparation and a massive three-year construction. The capital was officially relocated the next year.

The Forbidden City was built following rules inherited throughout Chinese history. It regulates a symmetrical layout for capital cities, which should be centered by a palace with a north-south axis. The historical areas of today’s Beijing, including the Forbidden City, precisely echo the rule.