Dome

Interior, Beamless Hall, showing painted brick vault; throne or reception room with placard calligraphy written by the Emperor Qianlong; One of the original structures of the complex, constructed during the reign of the Yongle Emperor (Zhu Di or Ming Chengzu). It functioned as a retreat for the emperor where he could prepare in advance of ceremonies, purifying himself for three days while abstaining from red meat, alcohol, music, entertainment and women. The palace compound is set in a square (symbolizing Earth) and faces due East to the central axis of the complex thereby symbolizing the Emperors obedience to Heaven; for this reason also the roof tiles are green, not the Imperial Yellow. The compound is surrounded by a double moat, crossed by arched bridges, and a double wall. Within the walled area is a private garden for the emperor. There are servant and guard quarters, the palace building, belfry and the "beamless" hall. Source: Travel China Guide [website]; http://www.travelchinaguide.com/ (accessed 8/1/2013)