The Tiananmen, a gate in the wall of the Imperial City, was built in 1415 during the Ming dynasty. In the 17th century, fighting between Li Zicheng’s rebel forces and the forces of the Manchu-led Qing dynasty caused heavy damage to, or even destroyed, the gate. Tiananmen Square was designed and built in 1651, and has since been enlarged by four times its original size in the 1950s.
Near the centre of the square stood the “Great Ming Gate”, the southern gate to the Imperial City, renamed “Great Qing Gate” during the Qing dynasty, and “Gate of China” during the Republican era. Unlike the other gates in Beijing, such as the Tiananmen and the Zhengyangmen, this was a purely ceremonial gateway, with three arches but no ramparts, similar in style to the ceremonial gateways found in the Ming tombs.
This gate had a special status as the “Gate of the Nation”, as can be seen from its successive names. It normally remained closed, except when the Emperor passed through. Commoner traffic was diverted to side gates at the western and eastern ends of the square, respectively. Because of this diversion in traffic, a busy marketplace, called “Chess Grid Streets”, was developed in the big, fenced square to the south of this gate.
Trip Info
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3 Star Hotels
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London
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Non Veg / Veg
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Yes
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Debit / Credit Card, VISA
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5 - 7 hours
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18
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70
Overview
Step into British royal history and explore two of England’s most iconic destinations in one unforgettable day. Visit the world-famous Windsor Castle, home to British monarchs for over 1,000 years, and experience the elegance of St. George’s Chapel and the historic State Apartments.
Continue your journey to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, known for its stunning Georgian architecture, charming streets, and ancient Roman Baths. With guided commentary and comfortable transportation, this tour offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
Ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone wanting to see England beyond London
Best Sky Diving
- Night Outlook
- Shopping
- British Food
- London eye



