Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a complex of Taoist buildings located in southeastern Beijing. The construction of this complex began in 1420, and was visited by all the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties after that date. Although it is considered a Taoist temple, the worship of Heaven exists long before Taoism. The park grounds incorporate 3 main areas, The Earthly Mount, properly the Altar, an empty platform of 3 levels of marble; The House of Heavenly Lord, a circular building with only 1 level; and The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a triple gabled circular building, with 3 levels of marble stones, used to pray for good harvests.