Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Mogao Caves, also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, are a collection of ancient Buddhist cave temples located in Dunhuang, China. These caves contain thousands of statues and murals that depict Buddhist art and history.
Related terms
Dunhuang: A city in northwestern China where the Mogao Caves are located.
Buddhist Art: Artistic expressions influenced by Buddhism, often depicting religious figures and stories.
Silk Road: An ancient trade route connecting China to Europe, passing through Dunhuang and facilitating cultural exchange.