1600-Year-Old Dunhuang Grottos Still IntactThe Dunhuang Grottos, the world's greatest repository of Buddhist art, still remain intact 100 years after it was discovered."Protecting the grottos has always been an important task for us," said Ma Wenzhi, the director of Gansu Provincial Cultural Relics Bureau. "And I can say that we are proud that we have been so successful." Located at the west end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, Dunhuang is famed for its numerous frescos and sculptured figures dating back to the 4th century. Since 1950, the Chinese central government launched numerous repair projects on the 1,600-year-old site, which was put on the World Heritage List by the UNESCO in 1987. Nearly every possible means has been used to protect the site, including controlling sandstorms, reinforcing cliffs, preserving sculptures and repairing frescos. Over 4,000 square meters of damaged frescos have been restored, sand erosion has been reduced by 70 percent, and the grottoes are strong enough to survive an earthquake measuring up to seven on the Richter scale. The government is playing an active role to attract foreign investment to protect the grottos. About 180 million yuan (2.2 million US dollars) has been collected so far. "Protecting cultural relics in Dunhuang will provide a good example for other places across the country in protecting their own national treasures." said Ma. |
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