Por-Bazhyn

Por-Bazhyn, or Por-Bajin, is a ruined structure first explored in 1891. The site, covering an area of about four hectares, is near the village of Kunngurtuk in southern Russia's Tuva, only dozens of miles away from the Russian border with Mongolia.

Excavations at Por-Bazhyn have suggested it bears a striking resemblance to sites belonging to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), which are demonstrated by its rectangular foundation, paired staircases linked to the building fa?ade, vertical beams, carved beams and pottery titles. In addition, the relief patterns on its terracotta decorations are common auspicious designs found in Tang relics.

Archeologists speculate that Por-Bazhyn was a summer palace for Tang Princess Ningguo. The New History of the Tang Dynasty has it that Tang Emperor Suzong (711-762), who ascended the throne soon after the An Shi Rebellion (755-763), married his daughter Princess Ningguo to Bayanchur Khan in a bid to win the support of Huihe, the ancient Uyghur nationality. After the death of the khan, to avoid being buried alive with him, the princess disfigured herself and later returned to her homeland.