Beijing Forbidden City-Outer Court

The Forbidden City is divided into two parts based on its layout and function. The Outer Court is the front part. The Inner Court is the back part. They are separated by Qianqingmen (the Gate of Celestial Purity).
The buildings’ environments are totally different between Outer Court and Inner Court. Outer Court centers TaiheDian (Hall of Supreme Harmony), ZhongheDian (Hall of Central Harmony), and BaoheDian (Hall of Preserving Harmony). The emperor summoned his officials, tackled with national political affairs, and met with foreign envoy in the Outer Court. It is also a place of holding grand imperial ceremonies. TaiheDian (hall of supreme harmony) is the highest building of China ancient buildings preserved so far.
It is a token of supreme imperial power. The emperor’s ascending the throne, hosting birthday celebrations, getting married, and appointing empress, etc. all happened here.

Beijing Forbidden City-Outer Court