Explore the unique city of Beijing, the capital of the People's Republic of China. Regarded as a political, educational, and cultural center, the city is the second most populated in China. Just in time for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, experience the glorious attractions of this ancient capital for yourself in Beijing Then and Now . Captivating then-and-now photographs highlight urban Beijing's blend of traditional architecture alongside the city's more modern buildings. Tour the city's well-known landmarks, including Tiananmen Square (Gate of Heavenly Peace), the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, Ming Tombs, and the Forbidden City, which was the former residence of the emperors of China. View fascinating street scenes, along with images of the city's walls and gates, the Drum and Bell Towers, the Ancient Observatory, Confucious Temple, the Legation district, and the Marco Polo Bridge. From the ancient walls of this capital city to the contemporary buildings of Beijing, the photographs collected in Beijing Then and Now portray a majestic city that is experiencing vast expansion and development.