Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital

The Central Axis of Beijing is an ensemble of imperial palaces and gardens, structures built for sacrificial rituals, ceremonial and public buildings, and the remains of the original central axis roads.

Construction of the Central Axis began in the 13th century and was completed in the 16th century. The axis has undergone constant refinement ever since, and it continues to influence Beijing's urban development today.
Stretching 7.8 kilometers from north to south through the heart of Beijing, the axis comprises 15 components, with the Bell and Drum towers at its northern end and Yongding Gate at the south.

Beijing’s Central Axis stands as an exceptional material testimony to the Chinese philosophy of "equilibrium and harmony". An outstanding example of mature design, it is the best-preserved capital central axis in China.