I am currently working with a team to develop Architectura Sinica, a tool for exploring extant examples of architecture constructed in pre-modern China, particularly those of the Middle Period (8th-13th centuries). Because the vast majority of these buildings were constructed for ritual purposes, these data on style and structure of the buildings, as well as epigraphic information extant on site in the form of plaques and stele inscriptions, have the potential to enhance not only our understanding of the aesthetics of traditional Chinese architecture over time and space, but also our understanding of the trade networks, crafts traditions, and spiritual aspirations of people living in pre-modern China. When complete, historical information and detailed photographs of construction techniques and stylistic features will be provided for each entry.

Integral to this website is the ATTCAT (Annotation and Translation of Traditional Chinese Architecture Terminology) Project. Technical vocabulary is critical for understanding this architectural tradition. Thus members of the the ATTCAT Project are developing a thesaurus of technical terminology, with images and bibliography. As we add definitions of new architectural terms, we also link them where they appear in individual entries on historical sites to enable a fuller understanding of the construction techniques employed in any given example. Terms are also searchable across the website.

Feel free to explore our site here at: architecturasinica.org You can follow this link to go directly to the architectural terminology section.

We have new entries added annually. Please be sure to check back to track our progress!