Kizil Caves, a distant memory of the Silk Road

Kizil Caves, also known as the Thousand Buddha Caves, are 300 years older than the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang. There are a total of 251 caves, with 236 currently numbered, and about 10,000 square meters of murals inside. The Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves began to be carved in the late 3rd century AD and gradually declined in the late 8th century. The art of the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves is a comprehensive art form that integrates caves, sculptures, and murals, forming a unique Kucha style. From this, one can glimpse the development, spread, and evolution of ancient Buddhist art in China. It holds special value for the study of Chinese Buddhist history, art history, art theory, and the social history of ancient Kucha. Kuqa, known as Kucha in ancient times, was an important town on the Silk Road. Although the Thousand Buddha Caves are not well-preserved, the remaining murals still show the exquisite craftsmanship of the time. History enthusiasts should not miss this place.