Beijing: The Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is the largest group of temple buildings in China. It was here that people offered sacrifices to heaven in springtime and at the winter solstice.

Quinian Hall, the three-story, three-tiered building at right, is considered the finest temple in Beijing. Four central columns represent the four seasons and the outer rings of 12 columns each represent the months of the year and twelve divisons of the day.

The Imperial Vault of Heaven, constructed of wood, dates from 1530. Surrounding the Vault is the Echo Wall which allows two people standing next to it to converse at a distance.