Some of the most memorable images from McCurry’s travels in Myanmar feature the country’s spectacular temples and pagodas.
This photograph depicts the famous Mingun Pagoda—Myanmar’s most visited pilgrimage site, an impressive structure built in 1790.
It was originally intended to become the largest pagoda in the world, but construction was never completed, as a prophecy warned that the king would die once the pagoda was finished.
To ensure his immortality, work was stopped.
Later, a massive earthquake in 1839 caused large cracks to split the monument’s façade, giving it the appearance of a colossal natural rock formation.
McCurry returned several times to photograph it, but this particular image was blessed with perfect light, which enhances its rich colors.
The fractured façade, rising above the three monks climbing the steps toward the entrance, subtly reflects the Buddhist belief that life is in constant motion—nothing ever truly stands still.
Another remarkable Buddhist site in Myanmar is the Golden Rock, Kyaiktiyo, shown in the adjacent image.
Covered in gold leaf, this enormous boulder appears to defy gravity; legend says it is balanced on a single hair of the Buddha.
When McCurry visited, he spent two full days trying to find the perfect vantage point.
He finally captured the image just after sunset, when the fading daylight blended with the warm glow of the lamps lit for the night.