Temples in the Cliffside
Temples in the Cliffside

Author: Sonya S. Lee

Publisher: University of Washington Press

Published: 2022-03-15

Total Pages: 298

ISBN-13: 0295749318

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At sixty-two meters the Leshan Buddha in southwest China is the world’s tallest premodern statue. Carved out of a riverside cliff in the eighth century, it has evolved from a religious center to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist destination. But this Buddha does not stand alone: Sichuan is home to many cave temples with such monumental sculptures, part of a centuries-long tradition of art-making intricately tied to how local inhabitants made use of their natural resources with purpose and creativity. These examples of art embedded in nature have altered landscapes and have influenced the behaviors, values, and worldviews of users through multiple cycles of revival, restoration, and recreation. As hybrid spaces that are at once natural and artificial, they embody the interaction of art and the environment over a long period of time. This far-ranging study of cave temples in Sichuan shows that they are part of the world’s sustainable future, as their continued presence is a reminder of the urgency to preserve culture as part of today’s response to climate change. Temples in the Cliffside brings art history into close dialogue with current discourse on environmental issues and contributes to a new understanding of the ecological impact of artistic monuments.

Temples and Towns in Roman Iberia
Temples and Towns in Roman Iberia

Author: William E. Mierse

Publisher: Univ of California Press

Published: 2023-12-22

Total Pages: 367

ISBN-13: 0520917332

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This is the first comparative study of Roman architecture on the Iberian peninsula, covering six centuries from the arrival of the Romans in the third century B.C. until the decline of urban life on the peninsula in the third century A.D. During this period, the peninsula became an influential cultural and political region in the Roman world. Iberia supplied writers, politicians, and emperors, a fact acknowledged by Romanists for centuries, though study of the peninsula itself has too often been brushed aside as insignificant and uninteresting. In this book William E. Mierse challenges such a view. By examining in depth the changing forms of temples and their placement within the urban fabric, Mierse shows that architecture on the peninsula displays great variation and unexpected connections. It was never a slavish imitation of an imported model but always a novel experiment. Sometimes the architectural forms are both new and unexpected; in some cases specific prototypes can be seen, but the Iberian form has been significantly altered to suit local needs. What at first may seem a repetition of forms upon closer investigation turns out to be theme and variation. Mierse brings to his quest an impressive learning, including knowledge of several modern and ancient languages and the archaeology of the Roman East, which allows him a unique perspective on the interaction between events and architecture.

Trekking in Tibet
Trekking in Tibet

Author: Gary McCue

Publisher: The Mountaineers Books

Published: 1999

Total Pages: 340

ISBN-13: 9780898866629

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Bordered by the Himalaya on the south and the Karakoram on the west, Tibet offers trekkers an experience like no other. In this updated edition of Trekking in Tibet, McCue prepares us for a sojourn into this mystical, other- worldly land presenting detailed discussions of pre-trip planning, the most rewarding treks, as well as an educational glimpse into the country's history and culture.

The Complete Travel Guide for Indonesia
The Complete Travel Guide for Indonesia

Author: YouGuide

Publisher: Youguide International BV

Published:

Total Pages: 248

ISBN-13:

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"The Complete Travel Guide Series" offers a comprehensive exploration of diverse destinations worldwide. Each book provides detailed insights into local culture, history, attractions, and practical travel tips, ensuring travellers are well-prepared to embark on memorable journeys. With vibrant illustrations, beautiful pictures and up to date information, this series is an essential companion for any type of traveller seeking enriching experiences.

The complete travel guide for Indonesia
The complete travel guide for Indonesia

Author:

Publisher: YouGuide Ltd

Published:

Total Pages: 248

ISBN-13: 1837048916

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At YouGuide™, we are dedicated to bringing you the finest travel guides on the market, meticulously crafted for every type of traveler. Our guides serve as your ultimate companions, helping you make the most of your journeys around the world. Our team of dedicated experts works tirelessly to create comprehensive, up-todate, and captivating travel guides. Each guide is a treasure trove of essential information, insider insights, and captivating visuals. We go beyond the tourist trail, uncovering hidden treasures and sharing local wisdom that transforms your travels into extraordinary adventures. Countries change, and so do our guides. We take pride in delivering the most current information, ensuring your journey is a success. Whether you're an intrepid solo traveler, an adventurous couple, or a family eager for new horizons, our guides are your trusted companions to every country. For more travel guides and information, please visit www.youguide.com

A Cultural Encyclopedia of Lost Cities and Civilizations
A Cultural Encyclopedia of Lost Cities and Civilizations

Author: Michael Shally-Jensen

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA

Published: 2022-11-11

Total Pages: 533

ISBN-13:

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This volume explores the span of human history-and plenty of prehistory-searching out prominent and fascinating examples of cities or broader civilizations that shifted from a position of influence to a lack thereof. The accelerating threat of climate change challenges us to analyze our own communities' relationships with the wider world and to contemplate their very existence. This single-volume cultural encyclopedia examines lost cities and civilizations from every region of the globe and dated throughout human history. Arranged alphabetically, the compilation allows both students and general readers easy access to detailed entries on specific lost cities and civilizations. Throughout the geographically and chronologically diverse entries, such themes as colonization, migration, and especially climate change are developed and analyzed. Supplementing the main entries are sidebars detailing mythological cities and Investigative Boxes examining present-day cities on the brink of extinction. These round out the book's focus on disappearing cultural centers and reveal the robust relevance this material has to a world facing the crisis of climate change.

Top 50 Best Things to do in Xi'an, China
Top 50 Best Things to do in Xi'an, China

Author: Nicholas Khatch

Publisher: NK

Published: 2023-08-01

Total Pages: 117

ISBN-13:

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Xi'an, China, a city brimming with historical wonders and cultural gems, offers a plethora of diverse and captivating experiences. The list of 50 unique things to do in Xi'an encompasses a wide range of attractions and activities that showcase the city's rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere. At the top of the list is the world-renowned Terracotta Army and Museum, where visitors can marvel at the awe-inspiring army of life-sized clay soldiers that has stood guard over the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang for over two millennia. Exploring the ancient City Wall is a must-do activity in Xi'an. Whether you choose to walk or bike along its majestic fortifications, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape and a tangible sense of history. The Muslim Quarter is another must-visit destination, with its bustling markets, vibrant atmosphere, and tantalizing street food. From the sizzling skewers of lamb to the aromatic flavors of local delicacies like roujiamo, the streets come alive with a culinary symphony that delights the senses. Xi'an's cultural allure extends beyond its historical sites. Visitors can delve into the city's past at the Shaanxi History Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts that span thousands of years. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a renowned Buddhist landmark, offers spiritual solace and panoramic views of the city from its upper levels. For those seeking a touch of tranquility, a visit to the exquisite Huaqing Hot Springs or a leisurely stroll through the enchanting gardens of the Xi'an Botanical Garden provides a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Xi'an's vibrant blend of history, culture, and culinary delights ensures that every traveler can find something to captivate their senses. From uncovering the mysteries of ancient civilizations to indulging in mouthwatering street food, the city offers an enchanting journey that will leave a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Xi'an and experience the richness of its heritage, the warmth of its people, and the timeless beauty that defines this remarkable destination.

Taoist Ritual and Popular Cults of Southeast China
Taoist Ritual and Popular Cults of Southeast China

Author: Kenneth Dean

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Published: 2014-07-14

Total Pages: 305

ISBN-13: 1400863406

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Most commentators imagine contemporary China to be monolithic, atheistic, and materialist, and wholly divorced from its earlier customs, but Kenneth Dean combines evidence from historical texts and extensive fieldwork to reveal an entirely different picture. Since 1979, when the Chinese government relaxed some of its most stringent controls on religion, villagers in the isolated areas of Southeast China have maintained an "underground" effort to restore traditional rituals and local cults. Originally published in 1993. The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.

Ecosystem Assessment and Fuzzy Systems Management
Ecosystem Assessment and Fuzzy Systems Management

Author: Bing-Yuan Cao

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2014-01-25

Total Pages: 516

ISBN-13: 3319034499

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“Ecosystem Assessment and Fuzzy Systems Management” is the edited outcome of the 3rd International Conference on Ecosystem Assessment Management (ICEAM) and the Workshop on the Construction of an Early Warning Platform for Eco-tourism (WCEWPE) in Hainan on May 5-12, 2013, Haikou, China. The 3rd ICEAM and the WCEWPE, built on the success of previous conferences, are major Symposiums for scientists, engineers and logistic management researchers presenting their the latest achievements, developments and applications in all areas of Ecosystem Assessment Management, Early Warning Platform for Eco-tourism and fuzziology. It aims to strengthen relations between industry research laboratories and universities, and to create a primary symposium for world scientists. The book, containing 47 papers, is divided into five parts: “Ecosystem Assessment, Management and Information”; “Intelligent Algorithm, Fuzzy Optimization and Engineering Application”; “Spatial Data Analysis and Intelligent Information Processing”; “Tourism Culture, Development and Planning” and “Application of Operations Research and Fuzzy Systems”.