Explore the Three Gorges Cliff Inscriptions: Historical Codes Carved into the Cliffs

The Three Gorges Cliff Inscriptions are cliff carvings of great historical and cultural value in the Three Gorges region of the Yangtze River. Here is a detailed introduction to them: Historical Origins • Early Origins: The history of the entire Yangtze River Three Gorges cliff carvings can be traced back to the Han, Wei, and Northern and Southern Dynasties, and through the development of multiple dynasties, many precious cliff inscription relics have been left behind. • Modern Three Gorges Cliff Inscriptions: Take the "First View of the Three Gorges Inscriptions" at the steep cliff of Tianzhu Mountain in Yiling, Yichang City as an example. This cultural project was proposed in 1992, prepared in 1994, officially started in 1995, and the first phase was basically completed in 1996. Distribution • Qutang Gorge: The cliff inscriptions on the south bank of Qutang Gorge, known as the "Powder Wall," are the most concentrated cliff inscriptions in the Three Gorges Reservoir area, with 13 stone inscriptions recorded, spanning nearly 8 centuries from the Song Dynasty to modern times. • Xiling Gorge: There is a cliff-side cliff inscription along the river on the north bank of Xiling Gorge, next to National Highway 348. The cliff path is about 100 meters long, with nearly a hundred different stone figures, stone Buddha statues, and various calligraphy inscriptions carved on both sides of the cliff walls. Main Content and Artistic Features • Rich Content: Covers historical events, figures, poetry, religious beliefs, hydrological records, etc. For example, the "Stepping Out of Kuiwu, Driving Away the Japanese Pirates" in Qutang Gorge is an inscription expressing General Feng Yuxiang's determination to resist the war, and there are also stone inscriptions recording ancient hydrological information, providing important data for the study of Yangtze River hydrology. • Exquisite Art: The calligraphy styles include running script, regular script, seal script, and clerical script, with various styles, from bold and unrestrained works to delicate and graceful pieces. The carving techniques are diverse, with skilled use of intaglio, relief, and other techniques, with lifelike figures and vigorous calligraphy. Cultural Value • Historical Value: They are important physical materials for studying the historical changes, political economy, and social life of the Three Gorges region. For example, the legend of the Kongming Stele is related to the Battle of Yiling between Shu and Wu, providing new perspectives and clues for historical research. • Artistic Value: Many works by famous calligraphers and painters are gathered here, showcasing the artistic styles and aesthetic pursuits of different periods, and are of great significance for studying the development and evolution of Chinese calligraphy and painting art. • Cultural Heritage Value: They carry the regional cultural connotations of Ba and Chu culture, Three Gorges culture, etc., and are important carriers for inheriting and promoting the excellent traditional culture of the Three Gorges region.