Stone carvings in the Chinese mainland and Ethiopia stand as monumental storytellers of human history. Carved deep into rock faces, these works bridge the gaps of time, offering a direct link to ancient dynasties, faiths, and communities.
In the Chinese mainland, the Dazu Rock Carvings showcase intricate Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian motifs carved over centuries. With dozens of caves and thousands of figures, this World Cultural Heritage Site preserves key insights into social values and artistic mastery from ages past.
Across the globe in Ethiopia, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela take stone artistry to new heights. Hewn from living rock, these 11 sacred structures form a labyrinth of grottoes and sanctuaries recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site. They reflect deep faith, community collaboration and innovative engineering of their time.
Beyond their historical value, these sites fuel modern innovation and sustainable tourism. Millions of visitors explore these stone marvels each year, driving local economies and inspiring digital preservation projects—from 3D mapping initiatives to virtual reality tours.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers, these ancient carvings remind us that culture and creativity can withstand millennia. Whether you’re sketching in a cave, coding a heritage app or planning a low-impact travel itinerary, stone heritage offers endless inspiration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
