Global Treasures: Norbulingka

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1276

UPC: 883629689319

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Around seven kilometres west of Lhasa's city centre and set within a huge park is the former summer residence of the Dalai Lama.

The Norbulingka, or Jeweled Park, was abandoned in 1959 when the last Dalai Lama made his escape to exile. The occupation and annexation of Tibet by China forced its spiritual and political leader to leave his homeland in the Himalayas.

Adding to the splendid buildings and gardens of his predecessor, the eighth Dalai Lama further enhanced the grounds with beautiful pavilions and glorious scenic splendor. The most outstanding building that dates back to that time is the Tuzin Palace.

On the western edge of Norbulingka Park is a building that dates back to the 20th century, the palace of the thirteenth Dalai Lama where the Jiansel Potrang once contained a precious collection of ancient thankas, the colorful banners of Tantric Buddhism.

The Jeweled Park of Norbulingka well deserves its name, and the summer residence of the Dalai Lama and its spacious parks are historic and much-loved treasures of a bygone time.