Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is an imperial complex of religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing. The complex was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for a good harvest.

The temple complex was constructed from 1406 to 1420 during the reign of the Yongle Emperor, who was also responsible for the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing. The complex was extended and renamed Temple of Heaven during the reign of the Jiajing Emperor in the 16th century.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a magnificent triple-gabled circular building, is the most iconic structure. It was built on a three-tiered marble terrace and is 38 meters in diameter and 38 meters tall. The building is completely wooden, with no nails used in its construction.