The Imperial College was the highest institution of learning and educational administration established by the state during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, also known as "Taixue" and "Guoxue". It was first built in the 24th year of the Yuan Dynasty (1287 AD). It was extensively renovated and expanded during the Yongle and Zhengtong periods of the Ming Dynasty. In the 48th year of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, a group of royal buildings, "Biyong", were added, forming the current regulations. The overall building of the Imperial College faces north and south, with three courtyards, covering an area of more than 27,000 square meters. The Jixian Gate (the main gate), the Taixue Gate (the second gate), the glazed archway, the Biyong Hall, the Yilun Hall, and the Jingyi Pavilion are arranged in sequence on the central axis. Students who studied in the Imperial College in ancient times were called "jiansheng". The Imperial College not only accepted students from all ethnic groups across the country, but also received foreign students. It played an active role in cultivating talents of all ethnic groups in China and promoting cultural exchanges between China and foreign countries. The main building of the Imperial College has been well preserved for more than 700 years. It is the only intact site of the highest institution of learning in ancient times. The Imperial College is famous for its long history, unique architectural style, and profound cultural connotation. The Confucius Temple covers an area of 22,000 square meters and has three courtyards. The buildings on the central axis are the First Teacher Gate, the Great Success Gate, the Great Success Hall, and the Chongsheng Temple. There are stele pavilions, kitchens, animal husbandry pavilions, and well pavilions on the east side of the front courtyard; there are stele pavilions and Zhizhai Hall on the west side, and there is a Zhijing Gate connected to the Imperial College. On both sides are 198 steles with inscriptions of Jinshi from the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, engraved with the names, native places, and rankings of 51,624 Jinshi, which are precious physical materials for studying my country's imperial examination system. Outside the Great Success Gate are the Qianlong Stone Drum and two related Qing Dynasty stone tablets. The main buildings in the central courtyard are the East and West Verandas and 13 Imperial Stele Pavilions; the Chongsheng Temple in the backyard is an independent courtyard, forming a complete ancient building complex of the Confucius Temple in Beijing.