PICTURE CHINA

I thought it would be fitting for the first post of this project to focus on what many people consider to be the heart of China- Tiananmen Square. This massive expanse of concrete is one of the world’s biggest public spaces and lies at the geographic center of Beijing. It has been the scene of many important events in modern Chinese history, from the declaration of the People Republic of China in 1949 to the student protests of 1989, and remains one of the main pilgrimage points for Chinese tourists.

On any given day, thousands of people come to fly kites, visit the mausoleum of Chairman Mao or have their picture taken in front of the famous backdrop of Tiananmen gate. While the mood of the place is generally lighthearted, it is impossible to ignore the fact that the square is a key symbol of the might of the Chinese government. From the imposing Communist architecture to the strong army presence to Mao’s portrait hanging on Tiananmen Gate, it is clear that the intention of the square is to let all visitors know exactly who is in charge.