f the city ,this grand set of structures covers an area of 273 hectares. to better symbolize heaven and earth ,the northern part of the temple is circular while the southern part is square .the whole compound is enclosed by two walls, a square wall outside a round one. the outer area is characterized by suburban scenery, while the inner part is used for sacrifices. the inner enclosure consists of the hall of prayer for good harvest and the circular mound altar.
(along the imperial passage leading from the southern lattice star gate in front of the circular mound altar)
the circular mound altar is enclosed by two walls ,each containing four groups of southern lattice star gate, each in turn consisting of three doors, with 24 marble doors altogether. standing on the passage facing north, you will notice that with each pair of doors on is narrower than the other. this reflects the feudal hierarchy: the wider door was reserved for monarchs, while the narrower one was used by courtiers.
on the day of the ceremony ,the emperor would don his ritual costume and be ushered in by the official in charge of religious affairs. he ascended the three terraces in the forefront to pay tribute at the alter.
(atop the circular mound alter)
we are now on the top terrace of the altar, or the third terrace .each terrace has a flight of 9 steps. at the center of this terrace lies a round stone surrounded by 9 steps. at the center of this terrace lies a round
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