Core Insights - The article emphasizes the significance of the Longmen Grottoes as a pinnacle of Chinese stone carving art and a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its historical and cultural importance in the context of the Luoyang region [4][10]. Summary by Sections Longmen Grottoes - Longmen Grottoes, located in the southern suburbs of Luoyang, is recognized as one of the world's largest stone carving art treasures, featuring 2,345 niches and nearly 110,000 statues, making it the largest stone carving art repository globally [9][10]. - The site has been praised by UNESCO as the "highest peak of Chinese stone carving art" and is part of the three major grottoes in China alongside Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes and Yungang Grottoes [10]. Cultural Significance - The article discusses the cultural heritage of the Luoyang region, particularly the lesser-known "satellite grottoes" that share artistic styles with Longmen Grottoes, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Central Plains Buddhist grotto art [4]. - The Longmen Grottoes and its surrounding sites reflect the evolution of Buddhist art in China, showcasing the integration of local cultural elements over centuries [4][32]. Recent Discoveries - A recent discovery of a Tang Dynasty round sculpture of a Bodhisattva adds to the historical value of the Longmen Grottoes, providing new material for research on the site [4]. - The article highlights the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve these cultural treasures, as emphasized by President Xi Jinping during his visit [4]. Other Grottoes - The article mentions several other grottoes in the Luoyang area, such as the Lüzhai Grottoes, which date back over 200 years before the Longmen Grottoes, and the Wanfoshan Grottoes, known for their complete relief sculptures that reflect the political and religious fusion of the Northern Wei period [5][20][23]. - The Xiewang Grottoes and the Hutu Temple Grottoes are also noted for their artistic significance and preservation efforts, showcasing the diversity of stone carving styles in the region [6][15]. Preservation Efforts - The article discusses the relocation and preservation of certain grottoes due to modern infrastructure projects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural heritage in the face of development [7][11][16]. - The ongoing research and educational initiatives surrounding these grottoes aim to enhance public awareness and appreciation of this rich cultural legacy [7][32].