As one of the most well-known landmarks in Beijing, China, the Forbidden City never fails to impress tourists and locals alike with its stunning architecture and rich history. However, one of the most overlooked aspects of this magnificent palace complex is its roof system, which is an integral part of its design.
What Is the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City is a vast palace complex located in the heart of Beijing, China. Built during the Ming Dynasty between 1406 and 1420, it served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1912. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in China.
The Roof System of the Forbidden City
The roof system of the Forbidden City is an essential part of its design. The buildings in the Forbidden City are built using traditional Chinese architecture, which is characterized by a unique roof system. The roof system of the Forbidden City is made up of three layers: the wooden frame, the roof tiles, and the decorative features on the roof.
The Wooden Frame
Each building in the Forbidden City has a wooden frame that supports the entire structure. The wooden frame is made up of a series of interlocking wooden beams that are fitted together without the use of nails or screws. This unique construction method creates a sturdy and durable frame that can support the weight of the roof tiles and the decorative features on the roof.
The Roof Tiles
The roof tiles of the Forbidden City are made of glazed yellow tiles. The yellow color was chosen because it is the color of royalty in Chinese culture. The tiles are arranged in overlapping rows, with each row covering the joints of the row below it. This creates a watertight seal that prevents rainwater from entering the building.
The Decorative Features on the Roof
The decorative features on the roof of the Forbidden City are what make it so unique. The roofs are adorned with a variety of decorative features, including small statuettes, carved animals, and intricate patterns. These decorative features are not just for aesthetic purposes; they also serve a practical function. They are designed to protect the wooden frame and the roof tiles from the elements, such as rain, wind, and snow.
The Forbidden City Roof: A Forbidden Territory
Although the Forbidden City is open to the public, the roof system is off-limits. Visitors are not allowed to climb up to the roof or even touch any part of it. This is because the roof system is very delicate and can be easily damaged. The government has put measures in place to protect the roof system, including a team of experts who regularly inspect and repair any damage to the roof tiles or the wooden frame.
In conclusion, the roof system of the Forbidden City is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture. Its unique construction method, yellow glazed roof tiles, and intricate decorative features make it one of the most beautiful roof systems in the world. Although visitors cannot climb up to the roof, they can still admire its beauty from the ground and appreciate its importance to the overall design of the Forbidden City.
HTML List of Forbidden City Roof Components:
- Wooden frame
- Glazed yellow tiles
- Decorative features