Ancient monastery holds consecration ceremony in Hubei

The ancient Guci Monastery holds a consecration ceremony for the completion of Puguangming Hall in Yichang city, Central China's Hubei province, Jan 8, 2014. [Photo by Liu Junfeng/asianewsphoto.com]

A consecration ceremony for the completion of Puguangming Hall has been held at the ancient Guci Monastery in Yichang city of Central China's Hubei province on Thursday, with the participation of a large number of masters, monks and visitors.

The monastery was first constructed in 1265, but was torn down during the period of culture revolution.

The reconstruction of the monastery began in 1996, but was suspended due to lack of fund.

The second stage of the project started on Nov 28, 2012, and major renovation included bell and drum tower, depositary of Buddhist sutra, and abbot's quarters.

The project covers a total area of 4,000 square meters with an investment of 15 million yuan.