What is Chinese Architecture?
Chinese architecture has developed for thousands of years in the fields of residential, public, and religious buildings It has a rich and varied history, characterized by a mix of Eastern and Western influences, with styles and outlooks that are peculiarly Chinese.
Chinese architecture is distinct from other styles of architecture in its use of materials, decorations, and details. A focus on the use of wood, brick, and stone as building materials, often combined in various ways, is one of the most prominent features of Chinese architecture. Chinese architecture is also known for its unique roof designs, which may feature upturned eaves, layered roofs, or gables. The use of color and ornamentation to decorate walls and other surfaces is also a common feature, as is the use of curved and undulating surfaces to echo the natural landscape.
One of the most notable aspects of Chinese architecture is the emphasis on symbolism. Buildings often have various elements that symbolize something, whether it is immortality, equality, or harmony, among other things. Many of these symbols come from traditional Chinese philosophy and are meant to evoke certain images and ideas.
Five Examples of Chinese Architecture
1. Temple of Heaven, Beijing: The Temple of Heaven is one of the most iconic examples of Chinese architecture. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this complex was designed to serve as a place where emperors of that era would go to worship the heaven god. It features a three-story main building with a richly decorated interior and curved roofs that symbolize the heavens.
2. Forbidden City, Beijing: The Forbidden City is the largest complex of palatial buildings in the world. It was constructed during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and served as the home and seat of power for twenty-four emperors for nearly 500 years. Its elaborate design, symmetry, and use of bright colors make it a striking example of Chinese architecture.
3. Summer Palace, Beijing: The Summer Palace is a large imperial garden filled with gardens, lakes, and pavilions. It is one of the finest examples of traditional Chinese garden design and the use of space to create a harmonious environment.
4. Dazu Rock Carvings: The Dazu Rock Carvings are a series of Buddhist sculptures located in Chengdu. They date back as far as the 7th century CE, and feature intricate carvings of Buddhas, bodhisattvas, and mythological figures.
5. Temple of the Eight Immortals, Shanghai: The Temple of the Eight Immortals is an historic temple located in Shanghai. It is a mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles, with a colorful, five-story pagoda as its central feature. The temple is considered an example of a Chinese architectural masterpiece, with its unique style and symbolic meaning.