¡@ 

       Along the Silk Road lies an extraordinary desert oasis known as Lanzhou. Over two thousand years ago, commerce flourished between China and most of the known world. In 138BC, the Han Emperor Wudi sent an emissary westward to develop strategic alliances to defend China against the Huns. From that time forward until the 14th century, caravans engaged in international cross-trade between China and the Middle East and Europe. One of the major stopover points in the caravan trade was Lanzhou.

      Bingling Si or Thousand Buddha Caves is located in the southwest sector of Yongjing County. The caves were started in 420AD and continued throughout the centuries. Still in existence are 183 niches, 694 stone statues, 82 clay sculptures, and 900 square meters of murals. All of the works of art are splendid examples of the mastery of Chinese artisans. Two-thirds of the works were created during the Tang Dynasty (618-907AD).

The Buddhist caves stretch for an amazing 200 meters, and were carved into the western wall of the inlet over 1,500 years ago. The history of the caves span the Western Qin, North Wei, Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties. The earliest caves were created during the time of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Some of the niches are of the Indian style carved stone stupas, which is very rarely found in China. 

      The artifacts of the Silk Road are housed in the Provincial museum. Among these artifacts is the Flying Horse of Gansu, which is the current symbol of China.

¡@

¡@