Tiananmen Square

Originally built in 1651, Tiananmen was the main gate to the Imperial City and the place where important ceremonies were held during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

On Oct. 1, 1949 Chairman Mao proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China from the rostrum of Tiananmen

The square reached its present size in 1958 -- of 40 hectares -- and can hold 500,000 people.