Authorities have transformed the historic Jebum-gang Lha-khang Temple in Lhasa, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet) from a centuries-old place of worship and a former granary into a vibrant modern art center.
This unique project has revitalized a key cultural site for a new generation, according to a press release.
The temple has a history of approximately 200 years. And has murals from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), according to Chinese architect Xia Yujun.
Nestled in a bustling business street and residential area at an altitude of 3,650 meters, the temple served as center of energy for the ancient city of Lhasa. And an important carrier of local Tibetan culture. Its circular construction, ancient Tibetan pillars and verandas, and centuries-old murals hit between the eyes.
Temple History:
First built in the late 19th century, the Temple is the only mandalic building, featuring a symbolic Buddhist symmetrical structure. After decades of use as a granary, authorities transformed it into a popular place among visitors. They did it in pursuit of modern art, thanks to five years of efforts by Xia and his team.
Xia’s team carefully repaired faded murals and fire-damaged carvings. Giving it a new lease of life, they ensured the original architecture and layout remain preserved.
The true innovation, however, lies in its new function. After restoring the basics of the temple, they reused the space as a modern art space. They did it without altering the original structure or the spatial flow. This sensitive transformation has created a dynamic dialogue between the old and the new.
The goal was to bring it back to life, Xia says.
The rebirth of the Temple as a modern art center required a sensitive yet thorough technological upgrade. It focused seamlessly weaving new infrastructure into the historic fabric of the building.
Facing a near-total reconstruction of its core systems, the project began by fortifying the structure against the elements. They applied an advanced, three-layer waterproofing system to the roof. Hence, ensuring that the murals inside remain intact for the next decade, Xia explained.
The most ingenious integration involved the floor. They installed old elm-wood flooring using a joist structure and embedding the necessary pipeline and electrical systems. Hence, paving the way for sound, lighting and electrical equipment essential to future exhibitions and preserving the temple’s ancient aesthetic.
Lighting System:
The lighting system was completely re-engineered for its new role.
The incandescent lights were replaced with special lamps for museum-grade illumination, reducing the harmful rays that could damage the murals, while simultaneously crafting an ambient atmosphere that allows viewers to experience the tranquility of this sacred building.
Through these careful interventions, the temple now possesses the robust, unseen framework of a contemporary art space, all while enhancing and protecting its historical soul.
The transformation of the Jebum-gang Lha-khang Temple into a modern art center was guided by a profound understanding of its multi-sensory nature. Xia describes Tibetan ancient architecture as a multi-sensory “5D or 6D” experience, encompassing scent, sound, light, and history.
This philosophy directly shaped the restoration. The goal was not just to repair a building, but to preserve this immersive sensory atmosphere while equipping it for a new purpose. The temple’s rebirth is thus a sensitive fusion where modern functionality serves to amplify, rather than diminish, the timeless multi-sensory experience of the ancient structure.
This approach of repurposing historic buildings as art centers or museums aims to raise awareness among young generation about conservation and inspire them to engage with the preservation of architectural heritage in Xizang.
(The Chinese term “Xizang” refers to southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region.)
