Constructed in the early part of the 9^th century, the temple consists of six square bases with some 1500 narrative relief panels illustrating Buddhist teachings and tales.  On the upper circular terraces there are latticed stupas which contain 72 more Buddha images.  Covered in volcanic ash by an eruption in 1006 and only rediscovered in 1814.

Billboards display photographs of its entire re-construction (not sure what year)from just a mound of ash to what we have today – a real credit to the team – and they are still restoring parts of the rear section.  We were unable to confirm whether there is an actual inner temple.  The monument is so large it is hard to believe that are no tunnels or an inner chamber.  We talked with many of the workers and stone masons but they all just seemed to ignore or shy away from the question.  Maybe there is but off limits to tourists.

UNESCO World Heritage Site #15