Stupas probably evolved in India from prehistoric times as burial mounds for local rulers and heroes. Legend says that in the 5th century BC Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, asked to have his ashes interred in a stupa. Since that time stupas have become symbols of the Buddha, reminders of his earthly existence, cult objects and places of devotion. As Buddhism spread through Asia the shape of stupas adapted itself to local architecture, giving rise to the huge variety of styles. Generally speaking there are three types of stupas, or pagodas, in China.
Windows are small or nonexistent and the interior space is cramped and dark.
Colse-eaved pagodas are an early style whose popularity rested on the extreme simplicity and gracefulness of form. They are best viewed from a distance where their lines can be seen in relief against a mountain or the far horizon. The Chongsheng Santa are clearly of the third type. The pagodas were founded for two main reasons. First, they were holy structures that invoked the Buddha's protection against the frequent disasters of floods and earthquakes.