九层楼

九层楼

九层楼，即莫高窟第96窟的木构窟檐，是现在莫高窟的标志性建筑。其主体为木结构建筑，依崖而建，俯临窟体，视野开阔，与岩体巧妙地融为一体，是防止风沙雨雪侵蚀洞窟的主要保护措施。

莫高窟第96窟始建于初唐时期，初为四层，其后几经重修，多次增建，直至1935年建成如今九层楼建筑。九层楼攒尖高耸，檐牙错落，铁马叮咚，其历经千年，已成为莫高窟、敦煌乃至甘肃的重要标志性建筑。

Nine-Story Building

The Nine-Story Building, located at Cave 96 of the Mogao Caves, is a wooden structure with the iconic architectural feature of the Mogao Caves. This main building is constructed of wood and built against the cliff, overlooking the caves and providing a broad view, cleverly blending into the rock formation. It serves as a primary protective measure against wind, sand, rain, and snow that could erode the caves.

Cave 96 of the Mogao Caves was first established during the early Tang Dynasty, initially comprising four stories. It underwent several renovations and expansions over the years, eventually culminating in the completion of the current nine-story structure in 1935. The Nine-Story Building rises sharply with staggered eaves, creating a distinctive silhouette. Withstanding the test of time and numerous renovations, it has become a significant landmark for the Mogao Caves, Dunhuang, and Gansu Province.