Xi'an -- Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Originally built during the Tang Dynasty in 652, the pagoda is now around 1400 years old!
The original was destroyed in an earthquake, but was rebuilt, and has since been 'remodeled' under the rule of another dynasty.

A cool park across the street where these kites with LED lights were being flown.

 

 

Another marble stairway 

In front of the pagoda is an active Buddhist temple and we happened to be there at the time of a ceremony.

 

 

 

 

 

An incense 'pit' 

One of the smaller alters on the grounds.
Each little cubby in the walls houses a Buddha. 

 

And now to the Pagoda!

 

The pagoda honors the man, Xuangzang, who traveled to India, learned the ways of Buddhism (and became a monk), and brought the religion back to China.

The materials he brought back from India are housed inside the pagoda.