China Castles & palaces pictures

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• World

These once extravagant imperial palaces and gardens were all but destroyed in the 19th-century, but the crumbling ruins are still worth visiting.

One of the most famous squares in the world, this spot is the beating heart of Beijing and has always been the site of mass protests and national celebrations.

From the Chinese Revolution to the nationalist government of the Kuomintang party, this palace has played a part in modern China’s dramatic political upheavals.

This idyllic public park was once the summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It houses the iconic Boat of Purity and Ease.

These once extravagant imperial palaces and gardens were all but destroyed in the 19th-century, but the crumbling ruins are still worth visiting.

This idyllic public park was once the summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It houses the iconic Boat of Purity and Ease.

This formerly restricted imperial palace complex is now a public museum that shows the splendor of the old China. It is one of Beijing’s most impressive sites.

Home to one of the world’s oldest ancient cannons, this military site once played an important role in China’s defense.

From the Chinese Revolution to the nationalist government of the Kuomintang party, this palace has played a part in modern China’s dramatic political upheavals.

Step through the gate of Shanghai’s premier classical gardens and into a tranquil world of bamboo groves, koi-filled ponds and Ming Dynasty pavilions.

Home to one of the world’s oldest ancient cannons, this military site once played an important role in China’s defense.

This idyllic public park was once the summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It houses the iconic Boat of Purity and Ease.

These once extravagant imperial palaces and gardens were all but destroyed in the 19th-century, but the crumbling ruins are still worth visiting.

This idyllic public park was once the summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty. It houses the iconic Boat of Purity and Ease.