what is a pagoda

A pagoda is a tower-like, multi-story structure with upward curving eaves, usually associated with a Buddhist temple complex and enshrining sacred relics. Pagodas are commonly found in East and Southeast Asia, including countries like China, Japan, Korea, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The architectural structure of the pagoda has evolved from the ancient Indian stupa, a hemispherical, domed, commemorative monument first constructed in ancient India. Pagodas are characterized by their multi-tiered, tower-like structure with eaves that curve upwards, often resembling an elongated pyramid. They are constructed around a central staircase and can have many forms, with as many as fifteen stories, each with an upcurved, overhanging roof. Pagodas are commonly made of wood, brick, or stone. In addition to their religious function, pagodas have been praised for the spectacular views they offer, and many classical poems attest to the joy of scaling pagodas.