The Forbidden City, home to 24 emperors from the early 15th C. to 1912, was the ceremonial and administrative apex of the Chinese empire. Within its protected walls were the imperial palace and various key government buildings. Under a heavenly mandate, the emperor’s role was to preserve the status quo and ensure harmony and balance in society.

The entire complex is numbingly impressive, and in the process of being restored for an Olympic debut. My heart fell when I saw the scaffolding draped over several buildings, but closer examination revealed a timeless shroud over a boastful beauty. UNESCO lists the compound as the world’s largest collection of preserved historic wooden structures.