By Diana Arushanyan, Beijing

Chinese capital city Beijing's central square, one of the world's largest urban centers, Tiananmen, is a place where China's history is felt on every meter. Specially for Armenian News-NEWS.am, we tell why for the inhabitants of the Celestial Empire this is not just a huge open space, but a national symbol and the country's main calculation point.

The name of the square translates as "Gates of Heavenly Peace." It was from the balcony of these gates in 1949 that Mao Zedong had announced the formation of the People's Republic of China. A huge portrait of the country’s leader above the main entrance has long become the most recognizable visual symbol of Beijing.

The calculation of all Chinese motorways also begins from this square. The “Zero Kilometer” sign is located near its southern gates. But you won’t be able to get close to it right away, as the area is fenced off; but for the Chinese, the square itself remains the symbolic center of the entire country.

Even on ordinary days, Tiananmen Square lives its own unique rhythm. People arrive here in advance and settle right in the square, waiting for the traditional ceremony of raising or lowering the Chinese national flag, which is held at dawn and dusk.

The strict atmosphere at the square is complemented by guards in black uniforms, standing with neat black umbrellas.

For an ordinary traveler, a visit to Tiananmen Square requires prior preparation. You won’t be able to just show up here; there is a passport control. Entrance is free, but you must book a visit in advance via the WeChat application. The most convenient option is to get to the East Tiananmen, West Tiananmen, or Qianmen subway stations, after which you need to go through a security check.

Useful tips before your visit to Tiananmen Square:

Original passport: Be sure to take your original passport with you. You will not be allowed to pass through the checkpoint without it, and a copy or a photo on your smartphone will not work.

Prohibition of flammable devices: It is strictly forbidden to bring lighters, matches or other flammable devices into the square; they will be immediately confiscated upon inspection.

Time allowance: To pass the checkpoint without haste, it is better to calculate the time in advance, as there are often queues at the entrance.