Retired worker Zhang Ande decided to make a pilgrimage yesterday to Tanzhe Temple in western Beijing's Mentougou District, after reading a report that the ancient temple was celebrating its 1,696th anniversary.

"An old saying goes that 'First there was the founding of Tanzhe Temple, then the city of Beijing,'" Zhang said. "I was told Beijing will celebrate its 850th anniversary as capital this year."

Established in the first year of Yongjia (AD 307) during the Western Jin Dynasty (AD 265-316), Tanzhe Temple has become the oldest and most influential holy place in the capital after weathering rises and falls with the numerous changes of dynasties in China.

"This year marks the start of the cultural relic protection program to welcome the Olympics," said Yi Xinxin, head of Mentougou District. He said a total of 130 million yuan (US$15.7 million) has been invested in the rebuilding and maintenance of Tanzhe and Jietai temples over the past few years.

Jietai Temple, with a history of more than 1,400 years, is a close neighbor of Tanzhe. Beijing has recommended these two historical sites as reserve candidates to apply for the World Cultural Heritage List, an official with the Tanzhe and Jietai Scenic Area Management Office told China Daily.

Starting from yesterday, celebration activities will last for 108 days.

(China Daily July 30, 2003)