China Millennium Monument

Overview

The China Millennium Monument is a futuristic sundial-shaped memorial and art museum built to mark the year 2000. Its distinctive tilted cone structure houses temporary exhibitions and a rotating gallery of Chinese cultural heritage.

Highlights

• Sundial Design: The building's massive slanted cone casts a shadow that functions as a working sundial on the surrounding bronze floor.
• Holy Fire Square: The flame of Chinese civilization burns in the central square, surrounded by flowing water.
• Art Shows: The interior rotunda hosts major national and international art exhibitions throughout the year.

History

Designed by He Jingtang and completed in 1999 for the millennium celebrations. The bronze floor is inscribed with a 5,000-year Chinese chronology from the mythical Yellow Emperor to the present.

Visitor Tips

• Quick Stop: A brief visit to appreciate the architecture and any current exhibition; the exterior is more impressive than the interior.
• Military Museum: Located near the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution, the two can be combined.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.