Mogao Cave

Описание: In this brief film we examine the Mogao Caves in Gansu Province, China. Lying next to the crossroads city Dunhuang, the Mogao Caves were a by-product of the ideas, trade, and religious exchange along the Silk Road. As Buddhism passed from the West into China, Dunhuang became an important religious center. Religious immigrants to the area began carving small caves into a nearby desert-rock ridge in order to dedicate time and devotion to Buddhist values. Over time, these caves became larger and more exquisite as political and militaristic leaders commissioned paintings and sculpture along the inside of the caves. Over a 1,000 year period the Caves grew to such prominence that many battles were fought between warring factions to gain control of this important religious center. As a result, there are many different cultural influences in the artistic styles within the Caves. Since the caves hold such vast cultural importance, the site is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.