Buildings are under reconstruction in Bailu county, Sichuan province, in this file photo taken July 9, 2010. [Photo/CFP]

Brilliance renewed

The local government wasted no time rebuilding lost structures, especially those of historical significance. The State Administration of Cultural Heritage also allocated 41.5 million yuan (about $6.4 million) to the project, which will be completed in 2012.

"The historic relics are critical in our plan to attract visitors to a new Bailu," said Liu Hanjun, a township official.

Progress in preserving the town's rich history is highlighted in the reconstruction of a Catholic Church. The original building bricks and wood were reused in the reconstruction process to preserve the building's unique flavor.

Ruins from the quake are prevalent even after three years of reconstruction.

Stone statues of a teacher protecting two students, as well as many students being evacuated from the school, stand near the original school building, its cracked walls and shattered glass windows let to stand as a testament to the disaster.

An earthquake experience hall, which incorporates an earthquake simulator and an authentic video to provide visitors with immersive earthquake experience, is still under construction nearby.

Now, the local government and residents of Bailu have put the past behind them as they look to a future of prosperity.

During the early stages of reconstruction, government officials considered a variety of designs to give Bailu a new look. Parties involved in the planning finally agreed on utilizing Bailu's rich natural and historical resources to provide renewed life to the area.

The Longmen Mountains Geological Park would be incorporated into a new Bailu, as would a brand new French-style town to add a touch of European charm to the vicinity.