Temple of Heaven, because of the perfection of forms and popularity, has become one of the main symbols of Beijing.

Initially, the Temple of Heaven served as universal: it performed prayers Storm, Clouds, Heaven, Earth, etc. Subsequently, it was decided to divide one large size into several smaller temples. So, the Temple of Heaven left on the outskirts of the city from the south. Round shapes became a symbol of the heavenly powers.

Temple of the Earth erected on the outskirts of the north side, and square shapes have become the personification of the forces of the Earth. It is in some ways connected with ancient beliefs that heaven is round and the earth - square. Only a small part of the church occupied by the altars and buildings, and the rest of the temple area of ​​the park did.

The name of the temple Tiantan correctly translated as "Altar of Heaven." Its construction was completed in 1421 as the Imperial Palace. Once in the temple of Heaven Emperors they brought gifts and earnestly prayed for a good harvest.

The Temple of Heaven is at a small distance from the Imperial Palace itself. For five centuries, during the winter solstice, the emperor, at the end of three-day of strict fasting, visiting the temple, in order to bestow lavish gifts of Heaven. Since ancient times, it is believed that with Heaven worthy to talk only emperors, having, according to local beliefs and traditions, the divine origin - that's why it is only permitted to refer to heaven in prayer for the prosperity of the country.

In contrast to the yellow-red buildings of the palace Palace Museum, are dominated by the blue color, the shape of the altar round - all this symbolize Heaven, which communicates the emperor. The main building of the complex can be called Tsinyandyan (reaping prayers) Huantsyunyuy (Great Sky) Chzhaygun (Palace to carry the post), and others.

Temple Huantsyunyuy includes the famous "Stone triple echo." A "wall of sound returning" remarkable is this: no matter how quietly you speak against the wall opposite the source of her hand clearly hear every word.

The adjacent park - an amazing place: come here early in the morning, you can watch the lovers of traditional gymnastics, and in the evening you can meet the musicians, the singers, the locals have fun the games - from card to badminton.