Over 750 years ago, the city of Beijing was constructed according to a hidden blueprint which aimed to ensure its success and longevity.

With exclusive access to Beijing’s most iconic sites, from the Forbidden City to the Bell Tower, we explore the heart of the world’s oldest continuous civilisation, revealing its grounbreaking medieval design according to the influential concept of 'centre'. We uncover the city's central axis line, which created a unique urban space, and discover how ordinary lives in Beijing have been shaped by its ancient urban model as a walled city.

A fascinating exploration of how the design and philosophy of China's capital have shaped its people, and continue to influence the country today.