Forbidden City Celebrates 100 Years as Public Museum Amidst Record Crowds

100th Anniversary of Public Access

• 📌 Today marks the 100th anniversary of the Forbidden City, also known as the National Palace Museum, opening its doors to the general public.
• 🌧️ Despite rainy weather, tens of thousands of tourists flocked to the historic site to commemorate the occasion.

Historical Significance and Imperial Past

• 👑 Once the exclusive domain of emperors, royalty, and concubines, the Forbidden City was built in the early 15th century.
• 🏛️ It served as the meeting place for the imperial court and where emperors dined, holding a significant place in China's national consciousness.
• 🚫 In ancient times, ordinary folk could not visit the Forbidden City while the emperor was in power.

Modern Accessibility and National Pride

• 🚶‍♂️ Today, approximately 40,000 people visit daily, a relatively new development compared to its imperial past.
• 🌍 The Forbidden City is considered a source of national pride for local visitors, seen as representing China's roots.
• 🌟 It is also viewed as a reminder of China's historical centrality and its increasingly important role on the international stage.

Special Exhibitions and Global Visitors

• ✨ To celebrate the centenary, the Forbidden City organized special exhibitions that drew many visitors.
• 🗺️ Millions of people from across the world visit this significant historical site every year.