Tiananmen Square, China

Tiananmen Square is a site with a great significance to Chinese people. From the Gate Of Heavenly Peace in 1949 Mao Zedong proclaimed the People's Republic of China. A large portrait of him hangs at the Gate and it has become one of the favourite places for tourist to take a picture. At the centre of the Square stands the Monument of the People's Heroes and the Mao's Mausoleum. On the western side we find The Great Hall of the People, the venue for the Communist Party meetings. In 2001 a temporary monument was erected in the middle of the Square to mark the 90 anniversary of the Party. For Chinese visitors coming all over the country, visiting the Square is a sort of pilgrimage; for the dissidents, on the contrary, is a symbol of repression. There are quite a few photographers offering their services to tourist on the Square. When the groups are ready I approach the scene and take the picture. Everyday at dusk a flag lowering ceremony is performed by the paramilitary policeman. Once the ceremony comes to an end, the Square is shut for the night.