A headless statue of a Buddha unearthed during a housing renovation project in southwestern China is believed to be a relic dating back to hundreds of years ago, an official document has shown.

Photos of the construction works taking place on top of the headless Buddha went viral online after renovation workers took down hoardings that surrounded the building in Nan’an district in Chongqing, unveiling the hidden statue.

A moss-covered Buddha can be seen reaching 13 meters above the ground and appears to be sitting upright with its hands folded in front. Except for the missing head, the statue is relatively intact, having sustained only minor damage to its wrists. Details of the robe it is wearing are still clearly visible.

The statue is believed to be a relic from the Southern Song dynasty in the 12th and early 13th centuries, according to a 2010 document published by China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration.

The Nan’an District Cultural Relics Management Office said in reply to a media inquiry that the exact construction period of the ancient Buddha was unknown and further checks were needed.

An elderly couple who had lived in the neighborhood for over 70 years said the Buddha was part of a temple that was later torn down, an online news portal operated by the Chongqing Daily Newspaper Group reported.

Other neighbors said that the head had been damaged or had eroded over the years.

While internet users marvelled at the headless photos, one merchant said he had known of its existence since he set up shop in the area seven years ago.

“Tourists come from all over the world to worship it. They say it is known to bring good fortune and there are people who come and burn incense every day,” he said.

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