Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing and Shenyang

Back to the Roots: The Imperial City of Shenyang as a Symbol of the Manchu Ethnic Identity of the Qing Dynasty

The Shenyang Imperial City, inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties' alongside Beijing's Forbidden City, stands out for its unique reflection of Manchu culture and identity. Unlike the Forbidden City, which symbolizes centralized power under the Ming and Qing dynasties, Shenyang Palace embodies the origins and evolution of the Manchu ethnic identity, particularly through its pre-1644 architecture and later additions during Qianlong's reign. This study reveals how the palace serves as a tangible symbol of both the Manchus' devotion to their ancestors and their gradual sinicization, merging distinct cultural and institutional systems. The research draws on primary sources such as Qing shilu (清實錄) and Manwen laodang (滿文老檔), providing unprecedented insights into Qing history before Beijing's conquest. By analyzing these architectural and historical layers, the study underscores Shenyang Palace's dual significance: as a testament to Manchu heritage and a bridge between Manchu and Chinese cultures.