Shaanxi experts praised for renovation assistance to Bagan's tallest pagoda

Shaanxi province's experts in cultural heritage protection have been highly praised by the Myanmar government for their great contributions to the renovation of pagodas in Bagan, including Thatbyinnyu Pagoda, the southeastern country's tallest pagoda, according to the Shaanxi Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage recently.

On Aug 24, 2016, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar and damaged 423 pagodas. In particular, the upper main structure of the 66-meter tall Thatbyinnyu Pagoda needed repair badly.

Built in 1144, the pagoda enjoys a revered religious status among the public. Immediately, the Chinese government sent out the Shaanxi expert team to conduct a field investigation and complete an after-earthquake assessment report.

In September 2018, China and Myanmar signed an agreement on assistance to the restoration project of Thatbyinnyu Pagoda. In April of this year, the Shaanxi team successfully completed the temporary rescue and restoration work of Thatbyinnyu Pagoda, winning high praise from Myanmar officials.

Wang Wei, deputy director of the Shaanxi Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, said that they will carry out the project in accordance with the requirements of the international cultural heritage protection guidelines and Myanmar local religious customs.

Boasting a long history, Bagan is home to more than 2,300 pagodas and temples. It is considered one of best places to see Buddhist remains in Asia. On July 10, Bagan pagodas and the ancient city were included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list.