An academic book on the pattern and style of traditional Tibetan buildings, titled Guide to Traditional Buildings of Tibet, was recently published by the Construction Bureau of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

The book, with more than 680 graphs and more than 560 photos, is a "comparatively systematic and objective" overview of traditional Tibetan buildings' artistic form and style, said Xu Zongwei, deputy director of the bureau and chief editor of the book.

In 2002-2003, local experts visited seven cities and prefectures and more than 30 counties to conduct investigations, take pictures, and collect materials on traditional Tibetan structures.

The book has passed an official appraisal by experts on ancient architecture, who spoke highly of it, saying that it will play an important role in the conservation of traditional Tibetan architecture, and that it is helpful for Tibet to inherit and display the Tibetan style and traditions in urban and rural development.
 
(CRI August 6, 2004)