40 ton Mao

Here's a picture of Tian'an Men Gate, "Gate of Heavenly Peace." This is where Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the PRC on Oct 1, 1949. This gate leads to the Imperial Palace. It was built as early as 1417, burned down and was rebuilt in 1651. It is 34m high. The portrait of Mao hangs directly over the main gate--in previous times, only the emperor was allowed to enter through this gate.