CHINA // The Unesco-listed grottoes that make up the Mogao site outside of Dunhuang in western China represent one of the most important Buddhist art sites on earth. The cave paintings were begun here in 366 AD and reached their zenith during the Tang dynasty, when Silk Road traders and travelling monastics stopped to rejuvenate. In addition to the priceless illuminated texts that were kept within (including the celebrated Lotus Sutra), the walls of the caves house ornate murals depicting Buddhas, bodhisattvas and unique flying apsaras. The treasures within the caves went unknown to the wider world until the early 20th century, when European explorers discovered the site and took many of its priceless contents to live in museums abroad.

Why is Mogao Caves important?

The Mogao Caves have a unique historical value as evidence of the evolution of Buddhist art in the northwest region of China. These works provide a wealth of vivid material depicting various aspects of medieval politics, economy, culture, art, religion, ethnic relations, and daily dress in western China.

What happened to the Mogao Caves?

At its peak, during the Tang Dynasty, there were more than a thousand caves, but over time, many caves were lost, including the first ones. There are currently 735 caves in Mogao. The most famous of them are the 487 caves, which are located in the southern part of the rock, which are places of pilgrimage and worship.

What religion is the Mogao Caves?

Itinerant monks and merchants can be seen as the cause of the spread of Buddhism. When the Mogao Caves were created in the first century, Buddhism played a prominent role in the life and consciousness of the Chinese people.

What city is Mogao Caves in?