Why the drainage system of the Forbidden City in Beijing can withstand torrential rains

In a display of architectural prowess, the iconic Forbidden City in Beijing has once again proven its resilience in the face of rain. The historic complex, which was built during the Ming Dynasty's Yongle era in 1420, boasts an intricate drainage system that has allowed it to remain dry even after six centuries of torrential downpours.

The Forbidden City's drainage system is a marvel of engineering, consisting of roof, ground, and underground components that work together to channel rainwater away from the buildings. Roof drains are cleverly designed with raised tubes that direct water into underground channels, which then connect to various palaces and courtyards within the complex. This intricate network ensures that the entire Forbidden City remains safe and dry even during heavy rainfall.

The stunning visual of "Nine Dragons Spitting Water" has drawn attention from netizens on Chinese social media platforms, with some expressing admiration for the ancient wisdom behind the design. One user commented, "If you can't carry it, the designer and builder will have to kill their head." The comment highlights the fact that in those days, builders were held accountable for their work, whereas nowadays, they often get rich and famous for constructing poorly-designed buildings.

The Forbidden City's layout consists of over 8,000 individual houses, which have been explained in detail by a Weibo video titled "The New Forbidden City." The microblogging platform also showcases other videos, such as that from the Siming Expo, which offers viewers an understanding of the palace's layout and architecture.

In addition to its impressive drainage system, the Forbidden City has been featured in a documentary series called "The New Forbidden City," which delves into the complex's history and construction. The programme highlights the wisdom of the ancient Chinese architects who designed and built the palace, emphasizing that their knowledge is hidden within each brick and tile.

As netizens admire the Forbidden City's ability to withstand the test of time, some have taken to social media to express grat