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Memorial archways: preserving history

2013-10-30 18:05:12

(Chinaculture.org)

 

 
 

During Chinese ancient times, the memorial archway was used to commend exploits, imperial examination results, benevolent rule and loyalty.

Known as paifang or pailou, the archway could be made of wood, brick or stone, with or without glazed tiles, often carrying some inscriptions on the middle beam.

Now, visiting the memorial archways, you still might catch a trace from their historical importance as one enters ancient Chinese culture. >>more


First built during the Ming Dynasty in 1417, Chengtianmen was made of wood and was an emblem for “receiving the heavenly mandate and launching worldly fortune”. 1651, Emperor Shunzhi from the Qin Dynasty ordered Chengtianmen to be rebuilt at the original site and renamed it Tiananmen.

Since Chengtianmen was named as a “gate”, why is it considered to be a memorial archway? And why is it located in front of Forbidden City?  These questions can be answered through the explanations behind the origin of memorial archways. >>more


Hengmen Biaolū and Fayue Gate of the Fang

 
 
 
Longchang memorial archways Changli memorial archway Dasima memorial archway Cishi memorial archway Jinfan prime minister memorial archway
Memorial archway at the Baiyun temple Sishiyipin memorial archway Daoguangujin memorial archway Weng’s memorial archway Qianfo mountain memorial archway

 Produced by Liu Fang 

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