After nearly a decade of research-based conservation and systematic restoration, the Hall of Mental Cultivation, or Yangxin dian, at the Palace Museum reopened to the public in Beijing on Friday. Since 2015, the project has effectively addressed structural issues in the building, restored and sustained the health of the hall area, and improved the conservation environment for the interior artifacts.

The Hall of Mental Cultivation was built in 1537 during Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and rebuilt during the reign of the Qing Dynasty’s Yongzheng Emperor (1722-1735). The Yongzheng Emperor had the entire area repurposed from the former imperial workshop to the imperial office where he lived and handled state affairs. Photos: Li Hao/GT