Tianti Mountain Grottoes, also known as Dafosi Temple, is a representative of early Chinese grotto art and is honored as the "ancestor of grottoes". Here is a detailed introduction:
Basic Overview
• Location: Located in Dengshan Village, Zhonglu Township, Zhangyi Town, 50 kilometers south of Wuwei City, Gansu Province.
• Historical Development: Founded during the Northern Liang of the Sixteen Kingdoms period in the Eastern Jin Dynasty, carved by King Juqu Mengxun of Northern Liang from 412 to 439 AD, with successive construction during the Northern Dynasties, Sui and Tang, Western Xia, and Ming and Qing Dynasties.
• Cultural Status: Listed as the fifth batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units in 2001 and rated as a National AAAA-level Tourist Attraction in 2021.
Architectural Features
• Cave Distribution: There are currently three levels of caves, totaling 18. The north and south walls inside the caves retain painted murals featuring cloud patterns, azure dragons, elephant sutras, fierce tigers, flowers, and other motifs.
• Representative Cave: Cave No. 13 (Great Buddha Cave) is the only open cave and the largest. Originally built in the Tang Dynasty, it houses a seated Sakyamuni statue about 28 meters tall, flanked by disciples, bodhisattvas, and guardian figures, creating a magnificent scene.
Artistic Value
• Far-reaching Influence: Tianti Mountain Grottoes are the origin of the Yungang Grottoes and Longmen Grottoes. During its excavation, a group of skilled artisans was trained, providing models and technical strength for the carving of Yungang and Longmen Grottoes in the Northern Wei Dynasty. Its artistic style has had a profound impact on later grotto art.
Tourist Information
• Tickets: 35 RMB per person, including guided tours; half price for students.
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, extended to 7:00 PM in peak season.
• Transportation: Recommended self-...
Post by 456Felix~Simmons@ | Sep 2, 2025
