Envision a monumental sundial, not just telling time, but narrating millennia; that’s the China Millennium Monument. Built to welcome the 21st century, this monument stands as a testament to China’s rich history and its aspirations for the future. The China Millennium Monument is more than just a structure; it’s a symbol.
Facing south according to Feng Shui principles, the China Millennium Monument encompasses 4.5 hectares. It features the Century Altar, World Art Museum, Holy Fire Square, Bronze Thoroughfare and Century Bell. Each element tells a story.
At the heart of the China Millennium Monument lies the Century Altar. This structure is composed of a revolving gradient altar platform and static cloisters. The exterior walls of the altar platform display 56 relief patterns. They represent China’s 56 ethnic groups. Inside the cloisters, 40 bronze statues of Chinese celebrities stand tall.
The World Art Museum resides within the Century Altar. It covers two hectares and includes various exhibition halls. Here, visitors can explore world art and appreciate a massive relief mural. This mural vividly portrays 5000 years of Chinese history. It measures five meters high and 119 meters in perimeter.
Near the south entrance, you will find the Holy Fire Square. The Holy Fire Platform sits at its center. Two springs flow down the stairs east and west. They represent the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers. The square is paved with 960 granite pieces. These symbolize China’s vast territory. A white marble tablet bears Jiang Zemin’s calligraphy.
Stretching from the Holy Fire Square, the Bronze Thoroughfare spans 274 meters. It is inscribed with 180,000 words. These words chronicle significant historical events and a chronology of human history.
East of the Century Altar stands the Century Bell. It was created to celebrate Macau’s transfer of sovereignty in 1999. People strike the bell during New Year countdowns. A beam of light illuminates the sky to welcome the New Year.
Fans of numerology can appreciate that the 960 granite pieces in the plaza represent China’s 9.6 million square kilometers.
The China Millennium Monument also features a collection of contemporary art and statues of famous Chinese figures like Confucius and Lu Xun. From the platform at the back of the sundial, one can see Yuyuantan Park and the Beijing TV Tower.
The China Millennium Monument is a place where art, history, and symbolism converge. It shows China’s past, present and future. As you leave, remember that the China Millennium Monument is a reminder of China’s enduring spirit.