Tibetan temples and residential houses

Author: Ma Lihua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-02-01
Features: When we mention the place "Tibet," a set of natural and cultural imagery instantly comes to mind: rivers and snow-capped mountains, grasslands and farmlands, small villages scattered across river valleys, black tents nestled in the high-altitude grasslands, and large or small temple complexes scattered across the vast plateau. The locals call these old houses "old houses" – the ancient residential buildings where generations have lived. They are indeed old, increasingly distant from modernity, even their descendants no longer desire them. They are either torn down or sold to build modern high-rises, which are both grand and practical. This is understandable. With economic development, this constructive destruction will only intensify. Old houses, like endangered species of rare animals, will become fewer and fewer (a few famous personages' former residences are fortunate to be spared). Along with them will vanish precious cultural heritage, architectural art, and valuable tourism resources. By the time we realize, it may be too late. The unique temporal atmosphere and cultural essence of old houses will be gone forever, and even if we build many new antiques, it will be in vain. The purpose of publishing this atlas is twofold: first, to awaken people to the value of ancient residential buildings, to show mercy and preserve more of the splendid old houses; second, even if they are all torn down, at least let the old houses leave some images for future generations or extraterrestrials!