Much of the Forbidden city has either been restored or has, in fact been destroyed and rebuilt over the ages. The main cause of destruction has, in the past, been fire since much of the structure is wood. Even the big columns which appear to be stone are, in fact, wood covered in m any layers of paint and varnish.

This interesting specimen, however, is actually stone which appears to be wood !

One of the Emperors thrones with the room re-created as it wood have looked 4 or 5 hundred years ago.

A visit to China would not be complete without a visit to Tiananmen square which lies at one end of the Forbidden city and is the largest public square in the world.  Chairman Mao sits above the entrance to the city.