Meridian Gate Pictures

The gate (also called Five-Phoenix Tower) consists of a platform terrace and gate towers. There are three arched entrances in the front and another two, one on each wing of the platform. The central arch was used only by the emperor. In the Ming and Qing Dynasties, grand ceremonies, like announcing the new calendar for the coming year, were held here. Bells and drums were kept on the terrace, and when emperors arrived for sacrificial ceremonies, the bell would be sounded. Now Meridian Gate is used as an important exhibition hall in the Forbidden City and the only entrance to the imperial palace.