BEIJING, May 10 (Xinhuanet) -- Repairs on an ancient temple more
than 1,000 years old was launched on Friday by the Beijing
municipal government in a bid to restore the city's historical
landmarks for its 2008 Olympic Games.
   The Tianning Temple, in downtown Beijing, was built during the
reign of Emperor Xiao Wen of the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534). A
60-meter-high pagoda was added to the temple in the Liao Dynasty (
907-1125).
   Historians say that Tianning, one of the capital's oldest
temples, is crucial for research into the city's past.
   A total investment of 2.53 million yuan will restore the main
gate, main hall and eastern and western side halls of the temple.
To repair damaged statues, experts will first research records
before restoration.
   According to an earlier report, the Beijing municipal
government has allocated a total of 330 million yuan to restore 98
historical sites, including the Tianning Temple. So far, work has
begun on more than 70 sites. Enditem