The Great Buddha of Leshan.
In the 8th century during the Tang dynasty , south of Sichuan province, and a few km from the city of leshan , was carved into the mountain a huge Buddha 71 meters high.
The majestic sculpture of a Maitreya Buddha stood in front of Mount Emei and at the confluence of the rivers Min Jiang, Dadu and Qingyi . The monk who designed the carving did it so that the Buddha could calm the waters under his feet where ships were wrecked daily.
From the construction, which took 90 years to complete, large rocks were added at the confluence of the rivers that made this pass become one of the safest for navigation. Although something would also have to see the statue, of course...
The Buddha became a place of pilgrimage and in 1996 after naming it UNESCO World Heritage , in one of the most touristic places in China .
What's so special about it? His toes alone reach 8.3m long, his ears 8m, and he is big enough for on his shoulder can sit up to 100 people.
And not only this, also architectural prowess with which it is made and its drainage system , which prevents rainwater from remaining inside, makes it unique in the world.
It was built in the 8th century.
After centuries standing last October it was closed to the public . Large cracks in the chest and abdomen forced a deep restoration in which 3D technology and even drones were used.
During these six months they have been perfecting the drainage system and restoring every centimeter of what is considered to be the third tallest statue built in honor of Buddha -Ahead of it is the Henang Spring Temple and the Bodh Gaya Buddha-.
In 2001 and 2007, cleaning processes were already carried out, drainage pipes were installed, structures were cemented in the rock and damage caused by acid rain and weather were fixed.
** Since last April, visitors can once again see the giant Leshan Buddha.**
To get here you have to travel to Chengdu where you can take a train or bus to Leshan, 162km away. Regular buses depart from the city every 10 minutes.
You will find it in the south of Sichuan province.