Zhizhiu Shengfo Temple Pagoda Forest

Zhizhiu Shengfo Temple Pagoda Forest

Zhizhiu Shengfo Temple Pagoda Forest is a cultural heritage site protected at the provincial level in Shanxi Province.

Zhizhiu Shengfo Temple Pagoda Forest (Fifth Batch of Provincial-Level Protected Sites)

Era: Liao and Qing Dynasties

Address: Zhizhiu Village, Yixing Township, Guangling County, Datong City

Shengfo Temple, fully known as Shengquanlin Shanbao Feng Chan Yuan, was first built during the Taihe era (1201–1206) of Emperor Zhangzong of the Jin Dynasty, underwent major renovations in the 42nd year of the Jiajing reign (1563) of the Ming Dynasty, and was repaired multiple times during the Qing Dynasty. All the various buildings of the temple were destroyed in 1967, and now only the temple foundation site and the pagoda forest remain.

The Shengfo Temple Pagoda Forest is locally known as the "Monks’ Tomb." It stretches 50 meters from east to west and 80 meters from north to south, covering an area of 4,000 square meters. Judging from the exposed fluted bricks, its era dates back to the Liao and Jin Dynasties up to the Qing Dynasty. There are currently 16 stupa towers remaining, with diameters of 1.5 to 2 meters and remaining heights of 3 to 5 meters. The stupas consist of a base, a domed body, and a finial. Most of the bases are two-tiered octagonal Sumeru pedestals. ?The surrounding area presents a solemn historical atmosphere, reflecting the religious significance of the site during its peak.

The Zhizhiu Shengfo Temple Pagoda Forest is well-preserved. ?The stupa towers provide important insights into the local religious culture and hold significant historical value. Source: Shanxi Provincial Cultural Relics Bureau

Further Reading:

· Fifth Batch of Provincial-Level Protected Sites in Shanxi Province