Buddhist temple stands the test of time
( 2003-07-30 07:51) (China Daily)
Retired worker Zhang Ande decided to make a pilgrimage, July 29, to
Tanzhe Temple in western Beijing's Mentougou District, after reading a report
that the ancient temple was celebrating its 1,696th anniversary.
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| Lay Buddhist Yao Hui prays to give best wishes to
participants in a ceremony celebrating Tanzhe Temple's 1,696th anniversary
in Beijing, July 29, 2003. | "An old saying goes
that 'First there was the founding of Tanzhe Temple, then the city of Beijing,'"
Zhang said. "I was told Beijing will celebrate its 850th anniversary as capital
this year."
Established in the first year of Yongjia (AD 307) during the Western Jin
Dynasty (AD 265-316), Tanzhe Temple has become the oldest and most influential
holy place in the capital after weathering rises and falls with the numerous
changes of dynasties in China.
"This year marks the start of
the cultural relic protection programme to welcome the Olympics," said Yi
Xinxin, head of Mentougou District. He said a total of 130 million yuan (US$15.7
million) has been invested in the rebuilding and maintenance of Tanzhe and
Jietai temples over the past few years.
Jietai Temple, with a history of more than 1,400 years, is a close neighbour
of Tanzhe. Beijing has recommended these two historical sites as reserve
candidates to apply for the World Cultural Heritage List, an official with the
Tanzhe and Jietai Scenic Area Management Office told China Daily.
Starting from yesterday, celebration activities will last for 108
days.
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