Why Was the Forbidden City Called Forbidden?

The Forbidden City, known as "Zǐjìnchéng" in Chinese, is one of the most famous historical landmarks in China. Constructed during the Ming Dynasty between 1406 and 1420, it served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The name "Forbidden City" stems from its exclusivity and the strict regulations that governed access to this vast complex.

1. The Concept of "Forbidden": The term "Forbidden" in the Forbidden City’s name refers to the strict prohibitions placed on entry and the sacred nature of the space. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the Forbidden City was the political and ceremonial center of the Chinese government. The emperor, considered the "Son of Heaven," was the highest authority, and the Forbidden City was the manifestation of his divine power on earth. The "forbidden" nature of the city underscored the emperor's supreme authority, symbolizing that only those granted permission could enter. Commoners were strictly prohibited from entering the city, and even high-ranking officials needed special authorization. The punishment for unauthorized entry could be severe, including execution.

2. Architectural Symbolism and Layout: The architecture of the Forbidden City reflects the ancient Chinese cosmological beliefs and hierarchical principles. The complex was designed with a strict north-south axis, symbolizing the emperor's central role in the universe. The emperor's living quarters were located in the most central and elevated part of the city, emphasizing his superiority. The Forbidden City is surrounded by high walls and a deep moat, further reinforcing its exclusivity and inaccessibility. The layout of the city, with its series of concentric courtyards and gates, created layers of increasing exclusivity, with the most sacred and private spaces at the center.

3. The Role of Ritual and Ceremony: Rituals and ceremonies were central to the functioning of the Forbidden City. These activities reinforced the emperor's divine status and the hierarchical structure of the court. The Forbidden City was the setting for grand ceremonies, such as the emperor’s enthronement, weddings, and sacrifices to Heaven. These events were highly controlled, with specific protocols dictating who could participate and how they should behave. The rigidity of these rituals further contributed to the "forbidden" nature of the city, as they were meant to maintain the cosmic order and the emperor's supremacy.

4. Control and Surveillance: The Forbidden City was not only a symbol of power but also a place of intense control and surveillance. The emperor's movements were closely monitored, and he was often isolated from the outside world. Similarly, the lives of those who lived and worked in the Forbidden City, including the imperial family, eunuchs, and concubines, were tightly controlled. The Inner Court, where the emperor and his family resided, was the most restricted area. Even within the Inner Court, access to certain parts was highly regulated, with specific areas designated for different members of the imperial family. The sense of being constantly watched and the restrictions on movement created an atmosphere of fear and obedience, reinforcing the "forbidden" nature of the space.

5. The Forbidden City as a Symbol of Imperial Power: The Forbidden City was more than just a residence for the emperor; it was a powerful symbol of the emperor's authority and the continuity of the Chinese state. The size and grandeur of the Forbidden City, with its 980 buildings and over 8,700 rooms, were intended to awe and intimidate. The intricate decorations, the use of yellow tiles (reserved for the emperor), and the vast scale of the complex all conveyed the emperor’s unrivaled status. The Forbidden City’s exclusivity and the rituals performed within its walls served to legitimize the emperor’s rule and reinforce the social hierarchy.

6. The Influence of Confucian Ideals: The design and function of the Forbidden City were heavily influenced by Confucian ideals, which emphasized order, hierarchy, and respect for authority. Confucianism was the dominant ideology in China during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and its principles were deeply embedded in the governance of the state. The Forbidden City was the physical embodiment of these ideals. The strict separation of spaces within the city, the rituals that took place there, and the hierarchical access to different areas all reflected Confucian values. The "forbidden" aspect of the city underscored the importance of maintaining social order and respect for authority.

7. The Forbidden City Today: Today, the Forbidden City is no longer a place of exclusion but a major tourist attraction and cultural symbol. In 1925, after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, the Forbidden City was transformed into a museum, opening its doors to the public for the first time. Visitors can now explore the once "forbidden" spaces and learn about the history of China’s imperial past. The Forbidden City has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its cultural and historical significance for future generations.

Conclusion: The Forbidden City was called "forbidden" because of its inaccessibility, its role as the emperor’s sacred residence, and the strict regulations that governed who could enter its walls. It was a place of immense power, ritual, and control, embodying the authority of the emperor and the hierarchical structure of Chinese society. The architecture, layout, and ceremonial functions of the Forbidden City all contributed to its "forbidden" nature, making it one of the most iconic symbols of imperial China. Today, the Forbidden City continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and mystery of China’s imperial past.