Circular Mound Altar, Religious ceremonial altar at Temple of Heaven, Beijing, China.
The Circular Mound Altar is a three-tiered structure of white marble terraces arranged in concentric rings. The upper platform displays an intricate pattern of stone slabs that organizes the entire composition from the largest to the smallest detail.
The altar was built during the Ming Dynasty and later expanded under Qing rule, becoming one of the empire's most important ceremonial sites. The enlargement reflected growing resources and the artistic care later emperors invested in their winter solstice rituals.
The number nine runs through the design at every level, symbolizing imperial power in ancient China. Emperors came here to affirm their connection to heaven and maintain cosmic harmony.
The site is accessible from multiple entry points, allowing visitors to explore the different levels of the structure. The surface is open and relatively flat, making it straightforward and safe to walk across the terraces.
The white marble of the altar produces a striking acoustic effect where sounds from the center of the top terrace return noticeably to the speaker. This feature may have been intentional, designed to reinforce the emperor's power over earth and sky.
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