Tiananmen Square in Beijing

The mention of Tiananmen Square might transport many of us into the protests that took place in the heart of Beijing (capital of China) in 1989. Initiated by the university students and some intellectuals, the Tiananmen Square massacre is remembered for the courage students showed in front of the Communist government.

However, as it stands today, the Square presents a picture perfect look. Tiananmen Square spans across the sprawling 44,000 square meters. The captivating national flag of China is hoisted here which is a sight to behold with the historical monument in the background. No wonder the place has become one of the most popular tourist sites in the entire country giving glimpse in the history, politics and other aspects of China. Located on the north end of the Square is Tiananmen Tower, in the center is the impressive granite Monument to the People’s Heroes. In the east is the National Museum of China and as one move towards the west is the Great Hall of the people and Mao Zedong Memorial Hall is in the south.

Built in 1917, the towering Tiananmen Tower was earlier used to announce to the public when any new emperor was sworn in. The investiture ceremony was usually held in the Tower only. The Monument of the people’s Heroes has epigraph written by Mao Zedong (the first Chairman of Republic of China) which epitomizes the spirit of the monument built in 1977. The tower has five gates and nine principal columns with exquisite carvings and the river Jinshui flowing under it.

Made in 1959, the Great Hall of the People is a very significant building. A magnificent structure, it occupies the area of 170, 000 square meters. It is here that the remains of Mao Zedong are kept. It has three halls: Main, North and South Hall. China National People’s Congress meetings are held here besides being the hub of other political and diplomatic activities.

Opened to the pubic in year 2003, The National Museum of China is a store house for information about the Chinese history.