Cross-Border Collaboration Revives 800-Year-Old Buddhist Treasure
When a 2016 earthquake nearly toppled Bagan's iconic Thatbyinnyu Pagoda—Myanmar's tallest ancient temple—a rapid response team from the Chinese mainland joined local experts to stabilize the structure ahead of monsoon rains. This marked the first phase of a landmark nine-year restoration project blending traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering.
Race Against the Rains
Emergency reinforcements incorporated 3D mapping and seismic-resistant techniques while preserving original 12th-century materials. UNESCO reports over 70% of Bagan’s monuments sustained damage, but this collaboration sets a precedent for international cultural preservation efforts.
Cultural Diplomacy Through Restoration
The joint initiative highlights China-Myanmar cooperation in heritage conservation. 'This isn’t just about stones—it’s reviving living history,' shared lead restorer Li Wei during a recent interview. With 1.5 million annual visitors pre-pandemic, Bagan’s restoration could boost sustainable tourism revival across Southeast Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
