China started Tuesday the second phase renovation work for the Mausoleum of Huangdi (the Yellow Emperor), a legendary founder of the Chinese nation, in Shaanxi Province.

With an expected overall investment of 150 million yuan (about US$ 18 million), 35 projects will be launched during the coming several years, local officials said.

The work will integrate the traditional architectural style of the buildings with the natural environment around the mausoleum, they said.

Fire-proof walls will be built to protect the tens of thousands of ancient cypresses there, many of which are over 1,000 years old.

In addition, a large hall will be built in 2003, and an altar the historical merits of Huangdi carved on will be put under construction in 2004.

The renovation of the Huangdi Mausoleum started in 1992.

( People's Daile December 26, 2001)