Taiping Museum

Introduction

In 1851, Hong Xiuquan, greatly disillusioned by the misrule and corruption of the Qing government, led peasant rebels to form the Heavenly Kingdom of Peace (Taiping Tianguo). First founded in Guangxi province, the Taiping cause was influenced by Christian ideals and was against traditional ideals and institutions. In 1853, Hong and his followers captured Nanjing and made it their capital for 11 years before they were ultimately defeated by the Qings.

This museum is devoted to the intriguing and turbulent history surrounding this movement. It houses an interesting collection of documents, books and artifacts relating to the rebellion including army maps, Hong’s seals, Taiping coins, scrolls of Taiping laws and weapon.