Historic Sites Disappearing As Three Gorges Reservoir Rises

The reservoir at China's Three Gorges Dam will fill to capacity this year, flooding more than 400 square miles of land, including some precious historic sites.

1 minute read

January 7, 2008, 7:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg

"More than a million people are being moved along with homes, schools and hospitals. But this part of China is home to a unique culture, not all of which can be moved."

"Some parts of the culture are being saved - and some are being lost."

"An impressive Stone Treasure Fortress dominates the shoreline of the reservoir in the county of Zhongxian."

"It's perched on a cliff looking out over the Yangtze River. On the front of the gateway is a water level marker that says 175.1 - the number of meters above sea level and the level to which the waters will rise when the dam is completed."

"This was once the stronghold of the Deng clan, and an ancient village once sat at the feet of the fortress. The village has now been razed and its residents relocated."

Read the full story: Three Gorges History Drowning in Rising Reservoir

Friday, January 4, 2008 in NPR

Environment History / Preservation Infrastructure China

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