3D printed Yungang Grottoes displayed in Qingdao
By Wang Lichen
People's Daily app
1513664973000

A replica of the third grotto of the Yungang Grottoes was displayed in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province on Saturday. It is the first historical site in the world to apply 3D technology.

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The third grotto, also called Lingyan Temple, is the largest grotto of the Yungang Grottoes. The relics in the grotto are valuable for researching and studying the grotto excavation methods in ancient times.

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A replicated Buddha statue, 9.7 meters in height, is the same size as the original. Visitors marvel at the magnificence of the replication from 3D printing technology.

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It takes two years to finish the 3D printing project. After the procedure of data collection and processing, they then need to 3D print, assemble, do abrasive blasting and painting.

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The 3D printed Yungang Grottoes is a milestone of cultural heritage protection and inheritance through advanced digital technology.

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It is reported that the project for a movable grotto replica and interactive VR system of the Yungang Grottoes is in progress. These technologies will help make Chinese culture and history better known to the world.