Mogao Caves, China

Mogao Caves, China


The Mogao Caves are caves in Dunhuang County, Gansu Province, China. Located on the eastern foot of Mount Mingsha, about 25 kilometers from the county seat, Mogao Caves were on a strategic point of the ancient Silk Route. As such the caves became a Buddhist sanctuary. In 492 cells within the cave system are intricate wall paintings of Buddhist art. These paintings were executed over a span of one thousand years.

Mogao Caves were inscribed as a World Heritage Site during the 11th session of the World Heritage Committee at Headquarters in Paris, France, on 7-11 December, 1987.

Mural from Mogao Caves