Global Treasures: Xumi-Fusho-Miao, Qing Dynasty Summer Palace Outer Temple

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1072

UPC: 879061006715

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

The temple monastery of Xumi-Fusho-Miao is one of the most impressive buildings in Chengde, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overall, there are eight outer temple monasteries, each of them with its own architectural style.

The temple was built in 1780 to mark the visit to China of a senior Tibetan religious dignitary, the sixth Panchen Lama, the first in history to visit China. It is a replica of what was his own monastery in Tibet.

The construction of this monastery played an important role in the diplomatic relationship between the Chinese Emperor Quing Long and Tibet.

The multi-level roofs of Xumi-Fusho-Miao are of the highest aesthetic and artistic finesse. Numerous enchanting ornaments adorn the splendid roofs of these captivating temples. A total of eight gold-plated dragons grace the ridges, and roofs are decorated with traditional Tibetan portrayals of animals such as elephants and a variety of mythical beasts.

Xumi-Fusho-Miao monastery is an impressive example of late 18th-century Chinese architecture.