South Gate is the most impressive of the four city gates. It is also the oldest, originally built in 582 during the Sui dynasty. Enhancements and enlargements were made by subsequent dynasties for nearly 1,000 years. The Chinese name since the Ming dynasty is Yongning meaning Eternal Peace. This is where the guests of emperors were greeted for centuries. In front is the 7.9 acre South Gate Square. South Gate provides the best access to the Beilin Museum (Stele Forest), Bell Tower and Drum Tower.
