The Mausoleum of Mao Zedong or Chairman Mao Memorial Hall as its better known is the final resting place of the notorious and very famous Chairman. It’s common knowledge that Chairman Mao Zedong wanted his body cremated however, historians at the time decided that he should be embalmed, he now will stay as a relic forever in a crystal coffin in the centre of Tiananmen square.
Moments affter his death on September the 9th 1976 the construction of the masusoleum began, although it wasn’t ready for Mao body for 1 whole year after, so Mao was stored in a different location whilst renovations were underway .This took slightly longer than first anticipated as Mao’s body was 5 ft 11 which was far too big for the originally intended crystal coffin.
The Mausoleum
The museum is only open 4 hrs each day between the hours of 8.am and 12, however be prepared to wait for around 1-2hrs to see him. Once inside there is a parade of Mao statues and memorabilia and photo’s. A lot of the Chinese tourists will stop and say a prayer, or even leave flowers at the base of the status.
The next room is named the ‘solemn hall of last respects’ as you enter there lies Mao in his crystal coffin. He is lit up really well from a bright light above, its very haunting to see his expressionless face and his eyes blankly starting out it was very bizarre! Sadly this part was very brief as within about 1 minute I was ushered out by security guards, but at least I got to have a look however short.
Mao's Body
Like you would imagine before you enter there are many security checks you have to go through a metal detector and then remove any bags, food, or drinks before entering what can only be described as a shrine.
Long Lines to enter.
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