The Chanteloube stupa
Origins
The Chanteloube stupa
The Chanteloube stupa was built in 1980, just before the commencement of the first three-year retreat in Dordogne (see Songtsen: location). During the construction process, the most precious relics and substances were placed inside the stupa. Once completed, several great lamas came to consecrate the stupa, including Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche.
With the help of friends and patrons, in the spring of 2005, the entire stupa was gilded with gold-leaf.
What is a stupa?
A stupa promotes peace and harmony by purifying and subduing negativity. The construction of stupas, with the vases and other precious materials and relics placed within them, has the power to restore the earth’s energies and to help balance the elements. In this way, the construction of stupas helps to prevent natural disasters, wars, famine, and diseases and they help to balance the natural forces that promote health, prosperity and well being.
It is said that developing a positive attitude and praying for the peace and happiness of all sentient beings in the presence of such a sacred object can help to extend one's life and to pacify sickness. Visiting and venerating stupas also ripens one's potential to attain enlightenment. They create a peaceful environment and inspire well-being and joy for the whole region in which they are implanted.
Guidelines for visiting the stupa
Visitors are welcome to circumambulate the stupa at Chanteloube. Though the three-year retreat structure nearby is completely enclosed, it is still very near in proximity to the stupa. Therefore, all visitors are requested to abide by the following guidelines:s
- Please leave you cars at the first, upper car park and proceed to the stupa on foot.
- Please do not approach the buildings on the left of the stupa (in the South-Eastern quadrant), which are closed to the public during the three-year retreat period.
- Please be mindful of preserving the tranquility and peacefulness of the environment and conduct your visit quietly
Thank you for your consideration.
For directions, please see how to get to there.
Helpful links: General information