China's 1,700-year-old Zhang Fei Temple has maintained its original form after being moved up the Yangtze River, and is attracting more visitors concerned about relics protection in the Three Gorges Project.

"Zhang Fei Temple is exactly what it was," said Wu Jing, a 70- year-old Chinese man living in Venezuela. Wu visited the relics eight years ago and had come all the way with many overseas Chinese to see whether the temple was altered or not.

"We were worried about the relocation before this visit, but are excited to find it is well protected here," he said.

Zhang Fei Temple was originally built as a sanctum for a butcher-turned-warrior in the Three Kingdoms over 1,700 years ago, and was repeatedly repaired and expanded in the following dynasties with lofty architectural art.

Local people worship Zhang Fei believing that his spirit could ensure them safe sailing on the Yangtze River. Zhang Fei is a household name in China, where he is remembered as a brave fighter who was loyal to his king and resourceful in emergencies. The temple had to be relocated since its lowest base was 130 meters above sea level, five meters lower than the reservoir water level of the second phase of the Three Gorges Project.

The municipal government of Chongqing proposed relocating the temple in 1998 and the plan was carried out after five years of arduous efforts and discussion.

A total of 245 craftsmen were recruited from across the nation for the relocation project.

"The temple was transferred piece by piece from Feifengshan Hill to Shizi Hill in Yunyang County in Chongqing Municipality," said Chen Yuanlin, manager of Zhang Fei Temple.

A total of 13,000 pieces were dismantled and reassembled by number at the new site, which was 32 kilometers upriver, said Chen, adding that 126 ancient trees in and around the temple had been numbered and replanted at the new site.

"The relocation attracts more people concerned about protection of the temple and some have come all the way to see whether it has changed or not. Most tourists with such doubts were relieved after visiting the temple. Instead, they marveled at the works of the craftsmen," said Zhan Hongyan, a veteran tour guide working at Zhang Fei Temple for 10 years.

The relocation will also help prevent the temple from flooding, Chen said. Historical records show the worst flood to hit Zhang Fei Temple was in 1870 when the Yangtze River rose to 150.35 meters above sea level, toppling almost all the building.

(eastday.com October 4, 2003)