Pagoda of Tianning Temple, Buddhist pagoda in Xicheng District, Beijing, China.
The Pagoda of Tianning Temple is a 13-story octagonal brick tower that rises about 58 meters on a square base. The structure displays carved figures, layered roof eaves, and decorative details that cover its entire height from foundation to peak.
The tower was built between 1100 and 1120 during the Liao Dynasty and ranks among the earliest tall structures in the ancient capital. Its construction marked an important moment in the city's architectural development.
The building shows how Buddhist beliefs were expressed through stone and brick, with lotus flowers and sacred symbols carved into its surfaces. These decorations remain visible today and reveal what faith meant to the craftspeople who built it.
The site is located in a residential neighborhood and accessible by bicycle or public transport. Visitors should look for open areas nearby to view the structure from different angles.
The interior of the pagoda is completely solid with no staircases or rooms inside, despite its massive size. This makes it a purely external structure where all attention was placed on the outer form.
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