Latvian architect Austris Mailītis, who works with unique art and architecture projects, recently completed a unique Shaolin Flying Monks Temple in Henan, China. The temple has a giant wind tunnel that allows the Shaolin monks and the general public to experience flight.
This amazing Temple is a platform for artistic performances with a 3,230-square-foot amphitheater which surrounds a vertical, steel-framed wind tunnel.
Image courtesy Mailītis Architects
Weekly shows are hosted in this amphitheater where local monks, as well as the general public, can try flying.
Mailītis said, “The concept is partially based on the phenomenon of levitation explored by the Shaolin monks for centuries. Now they will all have an opportunity to try levitating. The idea is focused on growth, a spiritual and physical chance of making the next step towards solving the mystery of levitation.”
The wind tunnel has a set of massive turbines which are hidden beneath the sound-proofed performance area. These wind turbines give out enough wind power upward that enables people to hover in the air.
Image courtesy Mailītis Architects
Mailītis Architects wanted to create a building that respects its natural surroundings. The amphitheater mimics the curves of a mountain, while the wind tunnel mimics a large tree with branches which symbolizes the vertical column of spirituality.
Mailītis said, “The building method combines modern and ancient technologies – a laser-cut steel superstructure supports stone steps handcrafted using local quarry resources.”
Image courtesy Mailītis Architects
