In total over 150 pagodas had their murals damaged or lost after the last year's disaster, out of which 52 pagodas were affected the worst. While the emergency repairs have been duely finished, there is much work to be done before the end of the month in order not to lose what has already been fixed. The problem is that prior to paintings, the walls of the pagodas should be brought to order and many of them are still in dilapidated condition. Among the pagodas which risk losing their murals (and probably collapse!) are Law-ka-htaik-pan pagoda, Shwe-bon-thar pagoda and Su-lar-ma-ni pagodas.
The restoration efforts are brought out by experts of UNESCO and the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Culture Property and the team of local artists trained by professionals.
The ancient city of Bagan is located in the central part of Myanmar, Mandalay region. Over 10,000 temples which once dotted the area of 104 sq km 2,200 remain. Most of the temples date back to 9th–13th century when the city was the capital of the mighty Pagan Kingdom.
Will Bagan Manage to Retain Its Murals?
News in Asia
Last year, the eathquake damaged wall paintings and murals in about 150 pagodas of Bagan. Up to now, many of them have not been restored and, as an officer from the archeology department in Bagan admits, there is a risk they will be further damaged by the approaching rain season which is due to hit Bagan in September and October.