Defying gravity: The spectacular Hanging Temple in China that has
been suspended 246-feet above ground for 1,500 years
For some travellers the phrase
'seen one temple you've seen them all' rings true, but The Xuan Kong Si Hanging
Temple in China would impress even the most cynical among them.
Also known
as the Suspension Temple, this unique monument was built into a cliff by monks
near Mount Heng, near Datong, more than 1,500 years ago.
'Hanging' 246 feet (75 metres)
above the ground, it's also notable for being the only temple left that
represents a combination of traditional Chinese religions Buddhism, Taoism, and
Confucianism.
Far from form over function, the
structure was said to have been built to avoid floods and was placed cleverly
beneath an overhang to shelter it from rain, snow and sun - which goes a way to
explaining its excellent condition today.
The temple of 40 rooms connected
by a series of corridors, bridges and walkways defies gravity due to oak
crossbeams which plug into holes chiseled into the cliff-side, with the
buildings' main support structure deep in the bedrock.
More than 80 statues of bronze,
iron and clay are found in the temple representing the range of dynasties which
have occupied and maintained it over the years.
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Defying gravity: The Hanging
Temple near Datong in China 'stands' 246 feet - or 75 metres - above the ground
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