MINGUN, Myanmar - A massive crack in the side of the Unfinished Pagoda in Mingun from an earthquake on March 23, 1839. Mingun Pahtodawgyi, also known as the Unfinished Pagoda of Mingun, was commissioned by King Bodawpaya in 1790. The current structure stands 50 meters tall; the plans called for it to reach a total height of 150 meters when completed. The structure is solid and built entirely of bricks. An earthquaker in March 1839 tore large cracks in the structure.


The Mingun Pagoda, also known as Mingun Pahtodawgyi, is an impressive, unfinished pagoda located in the village of Mingun in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar. Commissioned by King Bodawpaya in 1790, the pagoda was intended to be the largest in the world. However, due to a series of events, including financial difficulties and the death of the king, the construction was never completed. Had it been finished, the Mingun Pagoda would have stood at a staggering 150 meters tall, dwarfing other pagodas in the region. Despite being incomplete, the pagoda's immense scale and ambition make it a noteworthy historical site. The base of the pagoda, which is still intact, covers an area of 140 meters by 140 meters, showcasing the grandiose vision of King Bodawpaya. In 1838, an earthquake caused significant damage to the pagoda, leaving large cracks on its structure. Despite the damage, the pagoda remains an important religious and historical site in Myanmar. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, where they will find other significant landmarks, such as the Mingun Bell and the Hsinbyume Pagoda, which further add to the rich cultural tapestry of the region.


Size: 4476px × 6706px
Location: Mingun Pahtodawgyi, Mingun, Sagaing, Myanmar (Burma)
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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