Dunhuang, an ancient city in Gansu Province, western China, was the gateway to the Silk Road leading to central Asia and Europe. Dunhuang is world famous for its artistic sculpture statues and fresco paintings from the 4th-14th centuries in China, which reflect Silk Road civilization and important aspects of the Chinese people's religious life, arts, and customs, including the introduction of Buddhism to China during this period. In 1987, the Mogao Caves were among the first batch of Chinese sites to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting their cultural value.

Stucco statue of the Buddha.[Photo/lcsd.gov.hk]