The difference between Dan Yong and Shan Pen

Both Dan Yong and Shan Bi are important parts of ancient architecture in China, and their differences are as follows:

1. Location: Danyong is located in a square wall in front of the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the imperial city, facing south. On the other hand, the single pen was built in Tiananmen Square in the north of the Forbidden City, facing south.

2. Shape and height: Danyong is square, surrounded by walls, and the portal faces east. Right in the center is a special altar, on which sculptures such as animal faces and bird bodies are cast. The stones used are usually blue stones. The single pen is round, towering into the sky, with three layers and nine steps, which are tightened layer by layer. The top floor is Baoding, surrounded by streamers.

3. Use: Dan is used by the emperor when he sacrifices to heaven and earth, and can only be used by the emperor himself. On the other hand, the single pen was used by the emperor to sacrifice ancestors, and the emperor or his prince and princess exercised their rights. In addition, in the use of a single pen, it is necessary to follow some specific ritual norms, including the use of eunuchs or aristocratic slaves to assist in sacrifice, the use of specific musical instruments and various elaborate honor guards.

Generally speaking, Dan Yong and Shan Bi are one of the characteristics of ancient architecture in China, which has important historical and cultural values.