紫禁城, also known as the Forbidden City, is a historic palace complex located in the heart of Beijing, China. It served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, spanning nearly 500 years. The complex covers approximately 180 acres and features around 980 buildings, showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and cultural heritage. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the 紫禁城 is renowned for its grand scale and intricate design. It is surrounded by a large defensive wall and a moat, symbolizing the separation between the imperial family and the common people. Today, it houses the Palace Museum, attracting millions of visitors each year.