Journalist Pamela Tobey and her companions entered the first of the Mogao Caves illuminated solely by the guide’s flashlight and the slivers of sunlight that slanted in from the opening and pierced the cavernous darkness. Despite the limited visibility, the group was able to take in the exquisite Buddhist murals that adorn the cave walls. Thanks to the two films they had just seen, the visitors gained a sound understanding of the artworks on the fragile walls of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tobey was one of thousands of visitors exploring the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, on September 5. Before their cave exploration, she and her fellow travelers were and at the heritage site’s Digital Exhibition Center. The immersive cinematic experience provided them with an initial glimpse into the history, mural art and sculptures within the caves.
