Situated within Ying County , Shanxi province in China lies one of the oldest wooden buildings in the world . Constructed in 1056 and encompassing features from the Hang and Tang dynasty , the wooden pagoda of Fogong Temple ( Buddha ’ s palace ) was built by Emperor Daozong of Liao . The building has been included in the UNESCO list of protected buildings . The octagonal shaped pagoda is supported by several internal columns , attaining a total height of 220.83 ft . Built entirely in timber , with a 13ft stone platform and 33 ft . steeple , the construction is complex ; 54 different brackets link to a mezzanine layer , with windows situated on all eight sides which provide stunning views of the countryside . Nine storeys are situated within the interior , comprising sculptures of lions and mural paintings which relate to the Liao Dynasty .

Several important archaeological finds have been found within the temple , such as Lio Dynasty texts of Buddhist sutras , amongst other important historical artefacts of value , highlight the site ’ s significance .

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