Ready to explore a building larger than the Forbidden City? This is the Great Hall of the People. It stands as a testament to China’s political might and architectural skill.
The Great Hall of the People was completed in a mere 10 months. This rapid construction was between October 1958 and September 1959. The Great Hall was part of the “Ten Great Constructions”. These celebrated the 10th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.
Facing east, the Great Hall spans 150,000 square meters. It measures 336 meters from south to north. Its width is 206 meters east to west. The building reaches a height of 46.5 meters. The total area covers 171,800 square meters.
Seen from above, the Great Hall of the People takes a ‘山’ shape. The center wing rises higher than the two outer wings. Entrances are on all four sides. The main entrance is the East Gate. Above it, you will see the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China.
Let’s step inside the Great Hall of the People. Passing through two halls from the East Gate brings us to the Central Hall. This space covers 3,600 square meters. The floor and walls boast colorful marble. Six main gates lead into the Great Auditorium.
Inside the Great Hall’s heart, the Great Auditorium stretches 60 meters deep. It is 76 meters wide and 33 meters high. The hall’s fan shape ensures visibility from every seat. The Great Auditorium accommodates thousands. It has 3,693 seats in the lower section. There are 3,515 in the balcony. The gallery holds 2,518. The dais can seat 300 to 500 people. In total, it can host 10,000 representatives. The lower auditorium has simultaneous interpretation devices. These support 12 languages. Above, the ceiling sparkles with a ruby-like star. A galaxy of lights surrounds it.
Now, let’s explore the Great Hall of the People from the North Gate. Passing through two halls, we enter the Companionship Hall. This hall has a marble floor and covers 4,500 square meters. To the east lies the State Guest Meeting Hall. To the west is the State Guest Banquet Hall. Here, state leaders meet and host banquets for guests. A grand white marble staircase rises to the State Banquet Hall. It has 62 steps. At the top, the Salute State Guest Hall awaits. Leaders and guests take group photos here. The biggest traditional Chinese painting hangs here. It is called Jiangshanruciduojiao. It means “Beauty is the land.” The State Banquet Hall is on the second floor.
This hall spans 7,000 square meters. It can host 7,000 guests. Up to 5,000 can dine at once. This happened during Richard Nixon’s 1972 visit. Each province has its hall in the Great Hall. Beijing Hall and Hong Kong Hall are examples. Each shows the province’s unique style.
The Great Hall of the People is more than a building. It is a symbol of unity. It embodies China’s new character. Its design features reflect this. The Great Hall stands as a major attraction in Beijing. It represents China’s political power. It also shows its rich cultural heritage.