Senna3's Fotothing

Main Stupa of the Shwemawdaw Temple Complex dating back to the 10th century
Myanmar (Burma), Bago, March 2012

The Shwemawdaw has been rocked by earthquake many times in its long existence. In the 20th century alone, three big earthquakes hit the Shwemawdaw. The 1917 quake broke off its spire which now lay on the ground on the northeastern side of the pagoda (see picture above). The Shwemawdaw was almost completely destroyed in the last major quake which happened in 1930. After World War II, unpaid volunteers began restoration work to rebuilt the pagoda. The restored pagoda stands 114 m (374 ft), taller than it ever was.

As it happens, you can find a similar picture of the Shwemawdaw at the page of Elly Merz: http://www.fotothing.com/ellymerz/photo/d694ceff35ff2008d0444806e9d7ba44/