The most controversial symbol of globalization in Beijing has closed its door.

The Starbucks outlet in the Forbidden City downed its shutters on Friday after months of online protests by millions of people, saying its presence undermined the solemnity of the former imperial palace and trampled over Chinese culture.

The move follows the Forbidden City management’s decision to allow shops to operate only under its brand name.

The Forbidden City was the seat of 24 emperors before the end of imperial rule in 1911. It is China’s top tourist attraction, drawing about 7 million visitors a year.

Vice-president of the palace management board Li Wenru said Starbucks was offered the option of operating under the Palace Museum brand name like the other outlets.

Read full article (China Daily, July 16, 2007)