The Longmen Grottoes, located near Luoyang in Henan Province, are one of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art. Carved into the limestone cliffs along the Yi River, the site contains over 100,000 statues of the Buddha and his disciples, ranging from just a few centimeters to over 17 meters in height.
Construction began during the Northern Wei Dynasty around the 5th century and continued for several centuries, peaking during the Tang Dynasty. The grottoes showcase a remarkable blend of religious devotion, artistic skill, and cultural heritage. Among the most famous works is the colossal Vairocana Buddha in the Fengxian Temple, commissioned by Empress Wu Zetian.
In 2000, the Longmen Grottoes were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their outstanding historical, cultural, and artistic value. Today, they remain a treasured destination for both scholars and visitors from around the world.