Buddhist monasteries are places where monks and nuns retreat to learn about the principles of beliefs. They vary in size, look and location but all share community rules that often include celibacy, having no or very few personal possessions and retreating from society.
The Yumbulagang Monastery, Tibet
One of the first buildings in Tibet, the original monastry was ruined during a revolution but was rebuilt around 30 years ago, the monastry has a history that dates back more than 2,000 years
The Meteora Monastery, Greece
Founded in the 14th century this monastery is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and is home to six monasteries, built on top of a rock in Thessaly it has exceptional views and backdrops.
Taung Kalat, Burma
Tigers Nest Monastery, Bhutan
Clinging to the cliff around 10,000 ft up in Bhutan this monastery is one of the most famous monesteries in the world due to it’s located, the name tigers nest comes from the legend that Guru Rinoche meditated in a cave where the monastery is after flying over the Himalya in the 7th century on the back of a tiger from Tibet.
Mar Mousa Monastery, Damascus
Located in Damascus this monastery is still active today, with monks living, growing their own food and managing animals. Located high in the Syrian mountains this is an impressive monastery.
St Martin Monastery, south France
Located in Southern France, this impressive monastery has a mixed history including it being abandoned in 1783 and falling in disrepair.
Hozoviotissa Monastery, Greece
Located in Greece this 11th century monastery is located on the edge of a cliff, it’s believe the creator arrived on boat from Palestine.
St Bartholoma , Germany
This building is on the edge of a beautiful lake.
Potala Palace, Tibet
Located high above the valley it’s home to hundreds of monks, it’s also one of the earliest buildings in Tibet.
Punakha Dzong, Bhutan
Hanging Monastery, China
Key Gompa, Tibet
