Tourist Blamed for Devastating Temple Fire in China
A sacred Chinese temple has been reduced to ashes after a fire, which officials have blamed on a tourist's improper use of incense and candles. The blaze tore through the Wenchang Pavilion on Fenghuang Mountain in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu province, on November 12th.
Dramatic Scenes as Historic Site Burns
Dramatic footage from the scene showed the three-storey building completely engulfed in fierce orange flames. Thick, black smoke billowed into the sky as large sections of the wooden roof collapsed and crashed to the ground, causing the pavilion to fall to pieces.
Fortunately, authorities confirmed that there were no casualties as a result of the fire. They also confirmed that the flames were contained and did not spread to the surrounding forest areas, preventing a larger ecological disaster.
Investigation Points to Visitor Error and Modern Construction
Investigators stated that their preliminary findings clearly indicated the fire was started by a visitor's unsafe handling of incense and candles. In a reassuring note for cultural heritage, officials clarified that the pavilion, which was commissioned in 2008 and completed in October 2009, contained no cultural relics.
They emphasised that the structure was a modern building with a reinforced concrete frame and was managed by the neighbouring Yongqing Temple. While historical records show an original Yongqing Temple existed for centuries, the current complex was rebuilt in the 1990s.
Rebuilding and Strengthening Safety Measures
Local authorities have pledged to take further action based on the final investigation results. A key focus will be on strengthening safety protocols to reduce future fire risks at the site.
Restoration work is expected to commence once full assessments are completed. Officials have stated their intention to rebuild the pavilion in a way that preserves the traditional architectural style of the location, with updates on the progress promised for visitors in the coming weeks.
This incident follows another temple fire in China in 2023, where the Shandan Great Buddha Temple in Gansu province was severely damaged by flames.
