Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Forbidden City, located in Beijing, was the imperial palace of China's emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a vast complex consisting of numerous halls, courtyards, and gardens.
Related terms
太和殿 (Tàihédiàn): Hall of Supreme Harmony: The largest hall within the Forbidden City where important ceremonies were held.
乾清宫 (Qiánqīnggōng): Palace of Heavenly Purity: A residence for emperors within the Forbidden City.
紫禁城 (Zǐjìnchéng): Purple Forbidden City: Another name for the Forbidden City due to its exclusive status as the emperor's residence.