What are the Twin pagodas of Baisikou and where are they located?

The Twin pagodas of Baisikou are a cultural heritage site located on a mountain slope plateau of Helan Mountain in Helan County, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China. They are two distinct pagodas situated approximately 100 meters apart.

What is the native Chinese name for the Twin pagodas of Baisikou?

The native Chinese name for the Twin pagodas of Baisikou is '拜寺口双塔'.

When were the Twin pagodas of Baisikou founded or originally built?

While the specific construction time of the two pagodas is not explicitly recorded, based on surrounding relics and unearthed cultural artifacts, it has been determined that they were built during the Western Xia period. The Western Xia was a Tangut-led Chinese dynasty that existed from 1038 to 1227.

What is the significance of the Twin pagodas of Baisikou in terms of cultural heritage protection?

The Twin pagodas of Baisikou were designated as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 1988, signifying their importance as a protected cultural heritage site in China.

What is the origin of the name 'Baisikou'?

The name 'Baisikou' (拜寺口) was originally 'Baisikou' (百寺口), which derived its name from the numerous temples in the area, numbering over 100 at one time.

How was the construction period of the twin pagodas determined despite the lack of explicit documentation?

The construction period of the twin pagodas was determined based on the discovery of numerous scattered glass component fragments similar in style to those found in the mausoleums of the Western Xia kings, as well as records in local historical chronicles of Ningxia, which indicated the presence of Buddhist temples built during the Western Xia period.

What was the original purpose or context of the twin pagodas and surrounding structures during the Western Xia period?

The two pagodas are essentially confirmed to have been built contemporaneously with Buddhist temples in the area, and both were part of the imperial palace complex of Emperor Wulie of the Western Xia, Li Yuanhao.

What happened to the temple buildings around the twin pagodas during the Ming Dynasty?

The temple buildings surrounding the twin pagodas were destroyed during the Jiajing period of the Ming dynasty.

How were the twin pagodas referenced in historical records during the Ming Dynasty?

In the Ming Dynasty's 'Wanli Shuofang New Chronicle,' the twin pagodas were recorded as important landmarks in the local area.

What impact did the magnitude 8 earthquake in Ningxia during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty have on the twin pagodas?

Despite a magnitude 8 earthquake striking Ningxia in the fourth year of the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong reign, the twin pagodas remained standing, although the exact extent of any damage they sustained is not known from the text.

When did the cultural relics department of Ningxia organize a major restoration of the twin pagodas, and what were the findings?

In 1986, the cultural relics department of Ningxia organized a major restoration. During this process, archaeologists found that many sculptures and brick structures on the pagoda bodies did not conform to the Western Xia style, indicating multiple repairs during the Yuan and Ming dynasties, meaning the pagoda bodies were largely no longer the original Western Xia structures.

What significant inscriptions were discovered during the 1986 restoration of the pagodas, and what was their dating?

During the 1986 restoration, inscriptions in both Tangut and Sanskrit were found on the central pillars at the tops of the two pagodas. Carbon-14 dating confirmed these inscriptions were made in the late Western Xia period.

Where are the twin pagodas specifically situated within the Helan Mountain range?

The twin pagodas are located on a slope plateau named Baisikou, which is north of a mountain pass in Helan Mountain.

How far are the twin pagodas from the old city area of Yinchuan?

The twin pagodas are approximately 50 kilometers away from the old city area of Yinchuan.

What is the geographical setting of the twin pagodas?

The area where the twin pagodas are located is surrounded by mountains on three sides.

What are the approximate heights of the East and West pagodas?

The East pagoda is 39 meters high, while the West pagoda is approximately 36 meters high. There is also an alternative claim that the tower body is 45 meters tall.

Are the East and West pagodas identical in structure?

While the overall structure of the East and West pagodas is similar, there are slight differences in their appearance.

What are the primary construction materials and shape of the East pagoda?

The East pagoda is primarily constructed using bricks and features an octagonal shape.

How many eaves does the East pagoda have, and what are the main components of each floor?

The East pagoda has thirteen eaves. Each floor consists of three parts: the pagoda body, the eaves, and the flat base.

Describe the finial and other decorative elements at the very top of the East pagoda.

At the top of the East pagoda, there is an inverted lotus-shaped finial, which supports a wheel of dharma. On either side below the finial, there are two guardian statues.

What is the shape of the pagoda chamber in the East pagoda, and where are its main entrances?

The pagoda chamber of the East pagoda is circular, and there are arched doors located on the south side of the pagoda.

How are the floors of the East pagoda decorated?

The first floor of the East pagoda is plain, while the second to thirteenth floors are adorned with molded and painted decorations at their walls and corners.

What distinctive features are found on the eaves of each floor of the East pagoda?

Each eave of every floor of the East pagoda has two tile brackets with animal head patterns, accompanied by protruding wooden stakes, which serve as decorative elements behind the animal heads.

How is access provided between the floors of the East pagoda?

Wooden floors are installed between each floor of the East pagoda, and wooden ladders allow access to the top floor.

How do the interior heights of the East pagoda's floors vary?

The interior of the East pagoda is taller only on the first floor, with the subsequent floors being relatively shorter.

What is the overall exterior shape of the East pagoda?

The entire East pagoda tapers slightly from the bottom to the top, presenting a straight pyramid-shaped exterior.

How does the West pagoda compare to the East pagoda in terms of construction and number of floors?

The West pagoda is essentially the same as the East pagoda in terms of construction materials and appearance, but it has a total of 14 floors, one more than the East pagoda.

Describe the dimensions of the first floor of the West pagoda and its entrance.

The first floor of the West pagoda body is 6.24 meters high, making it relatively tall and large, accounting for about one-fifth of the total height of the pagoda body. It has an eave projection of 1.12 meters. There is a narrow door on the south side of the first floor, measuring 1.5 meters high and 0.5 meters wide.

What types of decorations are found on the West pagoda from the second floor upwards?

From the second floor upwards, below the eaves on each side, there are colored statues of Buddhas and decorative patterns. The pagoda also features rectangular shallow niches in the center of the wall, totaling 96 niches.

What specific statues and symbols are depicted in the niches of the West pagoda?

The niches on the second floor cannot be reconstructed. On the third and fourth floors, there are standing monk statues. The fifth and sixth floors each have 16 niches with seated Arhat statues, totaling sixteen Arhats. The seventh and ninth floors have 8 niches with guardian vajras. The eighth floor has 8 niches with life-releasing children. The tenth and eleventh floors each have 16 niches with bodhisattva offerings. The twelfth floor has 8 niches with treasures, including a treasure vase in the southeastern niche. The thirteenth floor has niches with eight auspicious symbols. Additionally, colored animal faces with seven tassels hanging from their mouths, forming an eight-shaped pendant, cover the wall on both sides of the niches.

What unique colored patterns are found at the corners of the West pagoda walls?

There are colored patterns of jewel flames and cloud supports for the sun and moon at the corners of the West pagoda walls.

What specific inscriptions and artifacts were found on the West pagoda's exterior and interior?

In the eastern niche of the twelfth floor of the West pagoda, there is a Western Xia inscription on the upper right side. On the flat base on the east side of the tenth floor, a complete green glass set animal was found. Inside the Buddha niche at the top of the pagoda, a hexagonal wooden central stupa pillar with a diameter of about 30 centimeters was discovered, bearing inscriptions in both Western Xia and Sanskrit.

How does the overall exterior shape of the West pagoda differ from the East pagoda?

Overall, the West pagoda is thicker than the East pagoda, with the upper part near the top having a larger taper, and a more rounded exterior shape.

When and why did the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region's Cultural Relics Department carry out large-scale repairs on the twin pagodas?

In 1986, due to severe aging of some construction components of the pagoda body, the Cultural Relics Department of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region carried out large-scale repairs on the twin pagodas, which lasted from April to October of that year.

What environmental protection measures were implemented in 2003 concerning the area around the pagodas?

In 2003, to protect the vegetation of Helan Mountain, including the area around the pagodas, the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region implemented a ban on grazing and human access to Helan Mountain, and all residents living near Baisikou were resettled.

What type of inspection was conducted at the twin pagodas before the Spring Festival in 2012?

Before the Spring Festival in 2012, the Cultural Relics Bureau, Religious Affairs Bureau, and Fire Brigade of Yinchuan City organized a fire inspection of many cultural relics and ancient sites, including the twin pagodas of Baisikou.

When did the most recent restoration work on the twin pagodas begin, and what was a key project completed that year?

The restoration work of the twin pagodas of Baisikou officially began in 2014, after the relevant restoration plan had been approved by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage. The lightning protection project for the twin pagodas was completed that same year.

What specific Buddhist sculptures were discovered at the top of the towers during the 1986 repair process?

During the 1986 repair process, a clay sculpture of a multi-armed Maitreya Buddha and a seated copper Buddha of Tibetan Buddhism wearing a pointed hat were discovered at the top of the towers. Both sculptures exhibited typical features of the Yuan Dynasty.

What wooden artifact from the Western Xia period was found inside the towers?

One wooden table from the Western Xia period was excavated from inside the towers.

List other cultural relics found inside the twin pagodas during the repair process.

Other cultural relics found inside the towers included two partially damaged silk Buddhist paintings, one wooden chair, one pair of wooden vases, two bundles of silk paper flowers, and three pieces of stamped satin.

Twin Pagodas Of Baisikou Wiki: Echoes of an Empire: The Twin Pagodas of Baisikou

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Introduction

Location and Setting

The Twin Pagodas of Baisikou are situated on a mountain slope plateau within the Helan Mountains of Ningxia, China. Positioned approximately 100 meters apart, they stand in a region historically known as Baisikou, or "Hundred Temples Pass," named for the vast number of temples that once populated the area. The pagodas are surrounded by mountains on three sides, creating a dramatic and isolated setting.

Imperial Origins

While precise construction dates are unrecorded, archaeological evidence confirms the pagodas were built during the Western Xia period (1038–1227). They were integral components of a larger imperial palace complex belonging to Emperor Jingzong (Li Yuanhao), the founding emperor of the Western Xia. The discovery of glass fragments similar to those at the Western Xia royal mausoleums further solidifies this connection.

National Cultural Significance

In recognition of their profound historical and architectural value, the Twin Pagodas of Baisikou were designated as a Major National Historical and Cultural Site in 1988. This status underscores their importance as key surviving monuments of the enigmatic Western Xia empire, offering invaluable insights into its culture, religion, and artistic achievements.

A History Through Dynasties

Construction and Survival

Erected during the Western Xia dynasty, the pagodas have witnessed centuries of change. The surrounding temple complex was tragically destroyed during the Jiajing period of the Ming dynasty. Despite this, the pagodas themselves endured, even surviving a catastrophic magnitude 8 earthquake during the Qing dynasty's Qianlong reign in the 18th century. Their resilience has made them vital landmarks, recorded as such as early as the Ming Dynasty's "Wanli Shuofang New Chronicle".

Restoration and Revelation

A major restoration was undertaken in 1986. This project was crucial not only for preserving the structures but also for the historical insights it provided. Archaeologists discovered that many sculptures and brickwork did not align with the Western Xia style, revealing that the pagodas had undergone significant repairs during the subsequent Yuan and Ming dynasties. The structures seen today are a layered history of their original construction and later modifications.

Deciphering the Past

The 1986 restoration yielded a definitive clue to the pagodas' origins. Inscriptions in both the Tangut language (the official script of the Western Xia) and Sanskrit were discovered on the central wooden pillars at the apex of both pagodas. Subsequent carbon-14 dating confirmed these inscriptions were made during the late Western Xia period, providing conclusive evidence of their construction era and original cultural context.

Architectural Analysis

The East Pagoda

The East Pagoda stands at a height of 39 meters. It is an octagonal, thirteen-eaved brick structure. Each of its thirteen floors is composed of a pagoda body, eaves, and a flat base. The top is crowned with an inverted lotus-shaped finial supporting a Dharma wheel, flanked by two guardian statues. While the first floor is plain, the upper floors feature molded and painted decorations. Wooden floors and ladders inside once allowed access to the top. Its profile tapers gently, giving it a straight, pyramid-like silhouette.

The West Pagoda

Slightly shorter at approximately 36 meters, the West Pagoda is structurally similar but features 14 floors and is more ornate. Its first floor is notably tall, comprising about one-fifth of the pagoda's total height. The upper floors are adorned with colored statues of Buddhas and decorative patterns set within 96 rectangular niches. The pagoda's exterior is thicker and more rounded than its eastern counterpart, with a more pronounced taper near the top.

Detailed Niche Layout of the West Pagoda

The niches of the West Pagoda contain a complex iconographic program:

Floors 5 & 6: Each floor has 16 niches containing seated Arhat statues, representing the Sixteen Arhats.
Floor 7: Features 8 niches with guardian vajras (powerful protectors).
Floor 8: Contains 8 niches with "life-releasing children."
Floor 9: Repeats the theme of 8 guardian vajras.
Floors 10 & 11: Each floor has 16 niches depicting bodhisattva offerings.
Floor 12: Contains 8 niches with treasures, including a treasure vase.
Floor 13: Features niches with the Eight Auspicious Symbols (Ashtamangala).

This intricate arrangement provides a fascinating glimpse into the Buddhist cosmology of the Western Xia period.

Cultural Relics Unearthed

Religious Artifacts

The 1986 repairs led to the discovery of significant religious artifacts inside the pagodas. Among them were a clay sculpture of a multi-armed Maitreya Buddha and a seated copper Buddha of Tibetan Buddhism wearing a pointed hat. Both of these items exhibit stylistic features typical of the Yuan Dynasty, confirming the period of later repairs and additions to the pagodas' contents.

Western Xia and Yuan Currency

A number of valuable historical items were excavated from within the towers. These included one Dachao Tongbao coin and two Zhongtong Yuanbao banknotes, both forms of currency from the Yuan Dynasty. A wooden table definitively dated to the Western Xia period was also found, providing a tangible link to the pagodas' original era.

Textiles and Furnishings

The protected interior of the pagodas preserved a collection of delicate organic materials. Discoveries included two partially damaged silk Buddhist paintings, a wooden chair, a pair of wooden vases, bundles of silk paper flowers, and three pieces of stamped satin. These finds offer rare insights into the material culture and decorative arts of the periods in which they were placed within the towers.

Conservation Efforts

Environmental Protection

Recognizing the fragile ecosystem of the Helan Mountains, the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region implemented a comprehensive protection plan in 2003. This included a ban on grazing and general human access to the mountain area surrounding the pagodas. All residents living in the immediate vicinity of Baisikou were resettled to minimize human impact and preserve the natural and historical landscape.

Modern Restoration and Safety

Following the pivotal 1986 repairs, further conservation work began in 2014, with a restoration plan approved by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage. A key component of this modern effort was the installation of a lightning protection system, completed the same year, to safeguard the ancient structures from storm damage. Regular safety assessments, such as a fire inspection conducted in 2012, are also part of the ongoing protection strategy.

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References

è®¸æ & å´å³°äºè 1988, p. 26.

éæ³½æ³è 1999, p. 356.

å¶éªåè 1987, p. 132.

ç½å²æçè 2006, p. 133.

Some theories suggest that these pagodas were dedicated to the Buddha, and it once enshrined Shakyamuni and many treasures of Tathagata (æ°åç½éè¥¿é¢é, 2003)

There is also a claim regarding the tower body being 45 meters tall (ç½å²æçè, 2006, 133).

A full list of references for this article are available at the Twin pagodas of Baisikou Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical, archaeological, or architectural consultation. Always refer to peer-reviewed academic sources and consult with qualified experts for scholarly research or conservation inquiries. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

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Echoes of an Empire

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction ℹ️

📍 Location and Setting

👑 Imperial Origins

🛡️ National Cultural Significance

A History Through Dynasties 📜

⏳ Construction and Survival

🛠️ Restoration and Revelation

✍️ Deciphering the Past

Architectural Analysis 🏛️

🗼 The East Pagoda

🗼 The West Pagoda

Detailed Niche Layout of the West Pagoda

Cultural Relics Unearthed 🏺

☸️ Religious Artifacts

📜 Western Xia and Yuan Currency

💎 Textiles and Furnishings

Conservation Efforts 🛡️

🏞️ Environmental Protection

🔧 Modern Restoration and Safety

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

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Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Location and Setting

Imperial Origins

National Cultural Significance

A History Through Dynasties

Construction and Survival

Restoration and Revelation

Deciphering the Past

Architectural Analysis

The East Pagoda

The West Pagoda

Cultural Relics Unearthed

Religious Artifacts

Western Xia and Yuan Currency

Textiles and Furnishings

Conservation Efforts

Environmental Protection

Modern Restoration and Safety

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice