Chinese archaeologists have found 400 stone Buddha statues during a field survey at a ruined temple dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in Liangping County of Chongqing Municipality in southwest China.

Ranging from 20 centimeters to 2 meters in height, the stone Buddha statues had sustained severe damage, but traces of distinct features of carving are visible.

The finding is of great significance to research on the customs, religion and architecture in the Ming Dynasty, a cultural relics official with the Liangping County.

The stone Buddha statues are now being protected by relevant department of the county.

(Xinhua News Agency July 26, 2005)