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Tang-Style Nunnery Reopened in HK
The Chi Lin Nunnery, a Tang Dynasty-style architecture covering over 33,000 square meters, has added a new landmark to Hong Kong, said a senior Hong Kong official Thursday.
The Chi Lin Nunnery, set up in 1930s, was a religious and cultural treasure in its own right, said Anson Chan, Chief Secretary for Administration of Hong Kong, at a ceremony marking the nunnery's reopening to the public after redevelopment of about 10 years at a cost of over 700 million HK dollars (90 million U.S. dollars).
The design and layout of the nunnery was a combination of ancient architecture and modern technology, she said. "I am sure that the Hong Kong Tourist Association and the Home Affairs Department will join hands with the monastery's management in presenting Chi Lin to both the local and overseas community to showcase Hong Kong's attractiveness and cultural diversity," she stressed.
Chan noted that the Tang Dynasty was a period of remarkable national strength and economic success in China, which saw the merging of different cultures and races.
"This Tang style nunnery is, therefore, a fitting reflection of today's Hong Kong as an international city in Asia where East meets West," she said.
Chan also praised the Chi Lin Nunnery for its contribution in the provision of social and educational services.
The Chi Lin Nunnery has 16 halls for various religious functions with a lotus pond garden at its first entrance. Apart from the religious structure, the Nunnery also operates a home for the elderly, a care and attention home, as well as schools.
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