Meridian Gate

The Meridian Gate, Chinese Wumen, is the southern and largest gate of the Forbidden City in Beijing and the actual main entrance for visitors. Built in 1420 under the Yongle Emperor and repeatedly restored, the 38-metre structure follows the classical U-shaped plan with five passages: the central one was reserved for the emperor, with two ceremonial exceptions for the empress on her wedding day and for the three top examination candidates. From the platform above the gate the emperor received dignitaries at New Year and proclaimed the new calendar. Today visitors pass beneath it with the Palace Museum ticket and emerge into the first great courtyard with its white marble bridge. The platform now sometimes hosts special exhibitions.