(Flickr/Zedzap)The Kingdom of Bagan (also pronounced Pagan) can be traced back to the early 2nd century AD. Its golden period, when it really flourished, was under the rule of King Anawrahta in the 1057 AD. Until 1287 AD – when it was taken over by the forces of Kublai Khan – close to 13,000 temples, pagodas, and other religious structures were built. About 2,200 temples remain. Due to flooding of the nearby River Irrawady, about a third of the city has been washed away. Treasures have been stolen, and natural disasters like earthquakes have left their impact on the remaining structures. All of this only adds to the romance and thrill of this holy and hidden place.
