Yungang Shiku Caves, China

Yungang Grottoes is also an important monument of Buddhist culture. They attract pilgrims. There are a total of 252 caves in the complex. All of them were carved into the rocks by hand. There are Buddhist sculptures in all the caves and niches. The 45 caves in the complex are quite large. In total, there are more than 50,000 statues in this complex. Each of the grottoes has its own unique features. You can see very beautiful fragments of stone carvings, decorative niches, and elements of ancient paintings, in addition to Buddha sculptures of various sizes.

Tanyao caves are the most visited and interesting place of the complex. They combine the five largest grottoes. Huge Buddha sculptures more than 10 meters high are carved in each of them. The Eastern slope of the complex is considered very interesting. Caves, supplemented by multi-tiered external pavilions are located here. The age of these external pavilions is relatively small compared to the complex itself. They were completed in the 16th century.

It is most interesting to walk around this part of the temple in foggy weather. It happens quite often in the mountains. The surrounding landscape is hidden from view in this weather. It begins to seem that there is nothing else around except the temple itself. The most beautiful design in the complex is considered to be cave No. 6. The most elegant and complex reliefs depicting animals, birds, fairies, and various mythical creatures adorn it. The interior design of the caves is of great cultural value today. Each element of stone carving and fragment of art painting is a very valuable work of art. Next - Macau Historical Center