Newli Stone Carvings

Newli Stone Carvings

The Newli Stone Carvings are a cultural relic protection unit of Liaoning Province.

The Newli Stone Carvings, also known as Lion Rock, are believed to have been built to guard the imperial tombs of the Liao Dynasty. Located on an isolated peak east of Xinli Village, the site features steep cliffs on the east, west, and south sides, while the north side is climbable. Passing through two passageways and two stone gates leads to a platform. At the back of the platform is a stone structure, said to have been three guard rooms facing south. Right behind these rooms lies a rock face of a mountain temple, which includes two halls facing north, now home to a cliff carving featuring one Buddha and two Bodhisattvas seated, with an attendant on each side of the Buddha. Brick battlements remain around the platform. From the high platform, one can gaze southeast to take in the county’s twin pagodas, drum tower, and Wanzi Mountain. Looking northwest, the peaks of Wanghai Mountain come into view. A mountain road below the platform leads northward. The elevated platform is surrounded by steep cliffs on all sides, making it easily defensible — a strategic stronghold where one man could hold off many. At the lower southern part of the platform, a massive rock resembles a lion, hence the name Lion Rock Watchtower.

Protected area: Centered on the Newli Stone Carvings platform, extending 20 meters east, 40 meters south and north, and 30 meters west.

Construction control zone: The first-class control zone extends 40 meters beyond the protected area, and the second-class control zone extends 40 meters beyond the first-class zone.

Further reading:

· Seventh Batch of Cultural Relic Protection Units of Liaoning Province