Situated in the heart of China’s cultural, political and economic centre, Beijing, is the Tiananmen Square. It is named after the Tiananmen Gate or the Gate of Heavenly Peace which was built in 1415 as the entrance to the Forbidden City and still stands to the north of the site. Since the heyday of the Tiananmen Gate, the square has undergone numerous changes, especially after the ascension of Chairman Mao. He envisioned it becoming one of the largest squares in the world and a symbolic icon of the rich history and cultural heritage of the heroes of the people.
The site is also known for several significant events that changed the course of Chinese history and helped mould it to become what it is today. The 1919 May Fourth Movement, the 1959 Proclamation of the People’s Republic of China by Mao Zedong on the 1st of October and the Tiananmen Square Protests that took place in 1976 are amongst the most well known.
To the north of the site is the Tiananmen Gate as well as the Tiananmen Tower built in 1417. In the centre of the square is the Monument for the Heroes of the People. This towering edifice further marks the square as a place to commemorate those who dare to take a stand and the Chinese Revolution. The Great Hall of the People is situated to the west of the square and is a significant political centre and the meeting venue of the National Congress. There is also the Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao and the Museum of History and Revolution open to tourists to explore and learn about the rich culture and history of a great nation.
There are a number of China hotels to choose from to suite your every need. Millennium & Copthorne Hotels China are among the most popular hotels in China for their plush accommodation and exquisite services that offer a truly memorable stay be it a business trip, couples getaway or family holiday. These well placed properties also offer the very best in contemporary comforts and conveniences that make your stay more enjoyable.