The most important imperial sacrificial altar -- once a guarantee of heavenly harmony
The most important of all imperial altars -- sometimes called the Temple of Heaven, not quite accurately -- is an example of classical Chinese architecture at its peak. Until 1913, it was, like all imperial altars, accessible only by those who took part in its rituals. The main building, standing on a broad marble terrace, is in the center of a forested area along the city’s north-south axis. In the South, there is the round, three-layer terrace around the altar. Unfortunately, the perfect harmony and serenity of the altar grounds can scarcely be felt today. High-rises are visible in the distance, and additional gates and paths, coming in from every direction, along with a bus parking lot, have robbed the sacred district of its quiet, enclosed feeling. Get there as early in the morning as possible, before it fills up.
