Palace of Eternal Spring
The Palace of Eternal Spring, also known as Changchun Palace, is one of the Six Western Palaces in the inner court of the Forbidden City. It is situated north of the Hall of the Supreme Principle, west of the Palace of Earthly Honour and northwest of the Palace of Eternal Longevity.
History
This residence was built in 1420 and was named the "Palace of Eternal Spring". In 1535, the Jiajing Emperor renamed it to the "Palace of Eternal Tranquility". It regained its current name during the Qing dynasty and was renovated in 1689. In 1859, the inner gate was dismantled so as to connect it with the neighbouring Hall of the Supreme Principle; an opera stage where Empress Dowager Cixi could watch performances was constructed.The most remarkable detail of the palace is a corridor painted with 18 Suzhou-style frescos depicting scenes from the Dream of the Red Chamber by Cao Xueqin.