Beijing is a world renowned city of history and culture. The Liao Dynasty made Beijing its alternate capital since 938AD. Later, Beijing become the capital city of Jing Dyansty, called Zhongdu, capital of the Yuan Dyansty, known as Dadu, and capital of the Ming and Qing Dyansty. During early Republican period in 1910s it became the capital of Republic of China. In 1928, the capital was moved to Nanjing and Beijing renamed Beiping, a name that held until 1949. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, Beijing was once again renamed Beijing, and designated the country’s capital.
In the 50-odd years after the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the capital has developed quickly and taken on a new look. Modern buildings rise up one by one like bamboo shoots in the spring after rain. With the successful bid for the summer Olympic Games in 2008 the concept of “Green Olympics, Technology Olympics and Cultural Olympics” will definitely bring large changes to Beijing, and strengthen the friendly communication between China and the other world.
Beijing possesses a strong force in science and technology. The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Peking University and Tsinghua University are among the world famous scientific research organizations and institutions of higher education. At the same time, Beijing is making efforts to develop its hi-tech industries. The Zhongguancun area, now called China’s Silicon Valley, has gathered a galaxy of talents.
The Great Wall
The Great Wall is known for its incomparable grandeur and long history. It is regarded as one of the world wonders. In 1987, it was inscribed on the world cultural heritage list by UNESCO.
The Palace Museum in Beijing
The Palace Museum, also called the Forbidden City, was the royal palace of the Ming and Qing dynasty.1987 it was inscribed on the world cultural heritage list by UNESCON.
The Palace Museum is the world’s largest royal palace complex, with more than 9000 rooms inside. It is the biggest national museum in China with the richest cultural and artistic treasures. It are kept myriads of historical culture relics and artistic treasures of every dynasty. Its unique architectural style is the epitome of Chinese classical architecture.
The Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven, built in 1420, was an alter where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties offered sacrifices to heaven and prayed for a good harvest. Enjoying high reputation in the world for its special architecture and delicate decorations, it is listed by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site.
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