On the edge of the Gobi Desert lies Dunhuang, an ancient oasis city that once stood at the crossroads of the Silk Road. Here, the Mogao Grottoes preserve one of the world's greatest collections of Buddhist art, including exquisite centuries-old murals and sculptures.

But these treasures face a constant battle against time, sand and decay.

For decades, conservators at the Dunhuang Academy have worked to protect them through mural restoration, desert control and digital preservation.

By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, they are helping this thousand-year-old legacy endure for generations to come.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service■