The Tian'anmen Rostrum, a Beijing landmark structure built in 1417, will soon undergo its fourth major renovation, it has been announced.
The rostrum will be closed from February 8 to April 30 for the upgrade, officials involved in the project revealed yesterday.
Although comprehensive details were not available, officials said the rostrum is expected to greet tourists from home and abroad with a more refined appearance after the works.
The rostrum stands at the front of the renowned Forbidden City, where thousands of people have their photos taken each day.
Since 1949, it has undergone large-scale renovations in 1957, 1970 and before October 1, 1999, the 50th anniversary of the People's Republic of China.
Daily maintenance such as reinforcement has never stopped. It was not until 1988 that it was opened to the general public for the first time.
The square south of the rostrum is Tian'anmen Square, which is believed to be the largest square in the world.
The square is the centerpiece for several important buildings, including the Great Hall of the People, Museum of Chinese History, Museum of the Chinese Revolution and Monument to the People's Heroes.
(China Daily January 30, 2003)
