Temple of Earth

Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would attend the annual summer solstice ritual of offerings to the heaven.

The Temple of Earth (also referred to as the Ditan Park) was constructed in 1530 by the Jiajing Emperor during the Ming dynasty.

For thousands of years, the Chinese have believed that important cosmic things could be symbolized using common shapes and directions.

The square is a powerful symbol in Chinese culture and mythology which can mean Earth or the ground.

The Chinese government has listed the Earth temple as one of the most important historical monuments under special preservation.

Since the 1980s, traditional temple fairs have been held regularly during the Chinese lunar new year.

Emperors of the Ming, and then later the Qing dynasties used the Temple for sacrifices which were used to appease the gods, who in turn would help the nation.

The Fangze Altar, The Imperial Respecting House, The Sacrifice Pavilion, The Fast Palace and the Divine Warehouse.