Gate of China, Ceremonial gate in Tiananmen Square, China
Gate of China was a brick and stone structure with three gateways positioned on Beijing's central axis between Zhengyang Gate and Tiananmen. The construction featured traditional architectural design elements characteristic of imperial-period fortifications.
The structure was built during the Ming dynasty under Emperor Yongle and served as an important passage point through the city. Its name changed twice reflecting political transitions: from Great Ming Gate to Great Qing Gate in 1644, then to Gate of China in 1912 after the republic was established.
The gate served as the formal entrance to the Imperial City and was guarded by stone lions symbolizing imperial power and protection. Visitors could observe the intricately carved tablet with inscriptions that reflected the authority of the throne.
The gate no longer stands today as it was demolished in 1954 to make way for other developments in the square. Visitors can learn about its history through historical records and informational displays available in the surrounding area.
The area between this gate and its neighboring counterpart once served as a bustling marketplace featuring a geometric street pattern that earned it the name Chessgrid Streets. This commercial hub was later transformed into a formal public square.
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