Stupa of Enlightenment Benalmádena

Oh, boy, do I have a treat for you! If you're ever in the charming town of Benalmádena, Spain, you absolutely have to visit the Stupa of Enlightenment. Who would've thought that such an incredible monument could be found in this little corner of the world?

Well, it all started with the mayor of Benalmádena, Don Enrique Bolín. He had the pleasure of meeting with Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche, a high-ranking Tibetan Buddhist teacher, and the rest is history. Literally! They decided to build a massive Stupa as a symbol of peace and harmony, and it turned out to be one of the largest Stupas in the western world.

Now, for those of you who may not be familiar with what a Stupa is, let me break it down for you. A Stupa is a Buddhist monument that symbolizes the journey to enlightenment. It's like a giant spiritual beacon, reminding us of the importance of mindfulness and compassion in our daily lives.

But let's be real, you're not just going to the Stupa of Enlightenment for a spiritual experience. You're going for the views! And let me tell you, these are some of the best views I have ever personally seen on the Costa Del Sol. The Stupa is situated on top of a hill, so you can see for miles and miles. It's truly breathtaking.

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention one of the most unique features of the Stupa of Enlightenment - it's one of the only Stupas in the world that you can actually meditate inside! That's right, folks. Not only can you enjoy the stunning views from the outside, but you can also experience the peace and tranquility of the Stupa's interior.

Can you imagine a more peaceful place to meditate? The Stupa's circular interior is adorned with beautiful artwork and colorful prayer flags, making it the perfect spot for quiet contemplation and reflection.

This incredible monument is made up of five different levels, each of which is filled with intricate artwork, sculptures, and spiritual teachings.

As you make your way up to the top of the Stupa, you'll encounter a variety of different monuments and scriptures that are meant to guide you on your spiritual journey. Some of the highlights include:

The Great Stupa: This is the main structure of the monument, and it's an impressive sight to behold. The Stupa is made up of hundreds of thousands of individual pieces, each of which was crafted by hand. The Relic Chamber: At the heart of the Stupa is the Relic Chamber, which is home to a sacred relic of the Buddha. This relic is said to possess incredible spiritual power and is a source of inspiration and reverence for many who visit the Stupa. The Buddha's Eyes: One of the most striking features of the Stupa are the Buddha's Eyes, which are painted on the top of the structure. These eyes are meant to represent the all-seeing wisdom and compassion of the Buddha. The Scriptures: Throughout the Stupa, you'll find a variety of different scriptures and teachings from the Buddhist tradition. These writings are meant to guide visitors on their spiritual path and help them cultivate a deeper understanding of the nature of reality. So, whether you're interested in art, spirituality, or simply soaking up some incredible views, the Stupa of Enlightenment is an absolute must-visit destination. With its stunning architecture, intricate artwork, and profound spiritual teachings, this monument is sure to leave you feeling inspired, uplifted, and transformed. Don’t forget to take a walk it clockwise and make a wish!