Wenfeng Pagoda is a general name for pagodas that bless students to success in Imperial Examinations in ancient China.

By Keqiao Cheng, EDITOR

Wenfeng Pagoda (Chinese: 文峰塔), also called White Pagoda due to its color, is one of the most well-known pagodas in Chongqing city. Built in 1888, this 26.64 meter-high pagoda was listed as a protected historical and cultural site of Chongqing in 2000.

During the past months, the pagoda has been in restoration. It is expected the project will be finished by the end of September.

This hexagon pagoda has seven floors, and it was made of stone and bricks. The first floor was piled up by stone, and the second to the seventh were built with bricks. On each brick, there is an inscription of Chinese characters which stand for “Wenfeng Pagoda”.

The restoration has initiated this April. Not only the body of the pagoda will be restored, but also the wooden stairs inside, which have disappeared for a long time. Also, the exterior lighting facilities will be installed.

The methods used to protect the pagoda are various.

The surface of the stone will be coated with a layer of transparent weatherproof material to extend the life of the stone, and preserve the historical sensation at the same time. Meanwhile, the bricks will be covered with white paint, which is made from glutinous rice, lime, and straws, to protect the old monument.

A 130-year-old architecture treasure

When entering the pagoda through its arched door, a small Buddhist shrine will be seen. In the top part of the door, there is a carving of Chinese characters which have explained the date of construction of the building.

The attic of Wenfeng Pagoda is only 3 square meters, however, it has 6 windows. Through these windows, one can easily locate Dafosi Bridge, Chaotianmen Bridge, and buildings in Jiangbeizui CBD area of Chongqing city.

Source: CQCB