Why does Tiananmen Square in China face south?

Because the traditional buildings in China face south, the buildings in Tiananmen Square also face south. China is located in the northern hemisphere, and sitting facing south is people's favorite orientation, because the back can block the north wind, the face can be oriented, and the south wind is mild.

The ancient civilization of China originated from the Yellow River basin, with the north close to the inland, controlled by the cold northwest wind in winter, and the climate was cold and dry.

In order to resist the cold in winter, minimize the blow of the cold wind in the northwest and absorb the sunshine in winter, the ancient dwellings are laid out in the form of sitting north facing south, using thick walls and heated kang.

In summer, the sun is scorching and the heat is unbearable. At this time, southeast winds are blowing in most areas. In order to maximize the summer heat, the layout of sitting north facing south reduces the sunlight entering the room and makes the room cool and quiet.

In ancient times, the south symbolized honor and victory, while the north symbolized failure. Therefore, there is a saying that "the south is revered and the north is a vassal". In order to satisfy the spiritual yearning for honor, the buildings designed by ancient people face south.

Influenced by this idea, Tiananmen Square, like most buildings in China, faces south.

Extended data:

The unique aesthetic features of traditional architecture in China mainly include five aspects.

One is to have a complete wooden frame system. It uses right-angle roof truss instead of diagonal roof truss.

The second is to emphasize the symmetrical layout of the axis and form a spatial organization with alternate courtyards. Both palaces and residential buildings emphasize the symmetry of the central axis and the dignity of the building, and are distinguished by the size and height of the building. Master and slave are completely different, which reflects the identity and status of the occupants. However, due to the complex terrain in the south, it can only be followed locally.

Thirdly, the appearance is beautiful and exquisite, with anthropomorphic interest. Roofs, walls and abutments are like the image of a person. For example, many huge pavilions become several repetitive paragraphs, which are beautiful and light in appearance and have no shortcomings of being bulky.

Baidu encyclopedia-sit north to south

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