The Forbidden City (Outer Court)

Just North of Tian'an Men Square is the Forbidden City, China's most magnificent architectural complex (completed in 1420). The huge palace was home and court to 24 emperors for nearly 500 years. It was the symbolic center of the Chinese universe, and the exclusive domain of the imperial court and its dignitaries. Here Catherine and I are standing in the Outer Court, easily the most impressive and imposing part of the complex.