Global Treasures: Samye Gampo

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1278

UPC: 883629689333

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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.

Samye Gompa, "Samye Monastery," is the oldest monastery in Tibet and one of the most important historic landmarks in Yarlung's Valley of Kings.

A circular wall that contains 108 chortens surrounds the large monastery complex. The Samye Monastery was designed strictly according to the Buddhist principles of the universe, and India's Temple of Odantapuri served as its model. The main temple in the centre of the monastery symbolizes the mystical Mount Meru and is surrounded by four temples, each located in one of the four directions of the compass.

The introduction of Buddhist monastery culture and the decline in the Bon system of faith with its demonic beliefs gave Tibetan society a new structure.

Despite its great age and dramatic history, Samye Monastery is still one of the most beautiful and unique religious sanctuaries in Tibet.