| |
The
square, which can accommodate 5,000,000 people, is flanked by the
Great Hall of the People to  the
west, the Museum of the Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese
Revolution to the east, with the ancient Tian¡¯anmen Gate to the north.
Chairman Mao¡¯s Memorial Hall is in the south part of the square.
During
the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the
square was only one-quarter of its present size, and was enclosed
by a red wall. The only common people allowed to enter the enclosure
were those being dragged in to be executed. ª¥
After the 1911 revolution that
toppled the Qing Dynasty, the wall gates were demolished to let in
common people, and the square has since been the scene of many historic
demonstrations.
The square was expanded to its
present size after the founding of the People¡¯ s
Republic. During festivities or political gatherings, the square is
alive with people, red flags, lights and music.
Beijing not only ranks high among
the tourist destinations in the world, but also becomes the capital
of Chinese cuisine. It is well known that Chinese cuisine is the oldest
in tradition and stands first on the list among the world best, with
many world-renowned restaurants.
|
|
|
