Sustainable Resources Accessible to All
During his trip to France in 1977, the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje (1924–1981) explained that five conditions were necessary for the Buddha’s teaching to authentically and sustainably take root in Europe:
A Network of Centers for Study and Meditation
open to All
In Dordogne and Auvergne: Two centers, along with close to seventy satellite centers in France and elsewhere in Europe, that welcome the public and offer the opportunity to discover Buddhism, and to study, exchange, and meditate regularly close to home.
A Monastery
to Create a Lasting Future for a Living Tradition
In Auvergne: A place to consecrate one’s life to meditation and study in a monastic setting, in addition to a large temple where monks, nuns, and laypeople come together to receive teachings and practice.
Retreat Centers
to Deepen Knowledge Through Meditation
In Auvergne: Several centers of intensive retreat as well as an hermitage open to the public, to receive an authentic tradition and practice it.
An Institute
to Explore Contemporary Buddhism
In Dordogne: A space dedicated to profound study of Buddhism, open to interdisciplinary dialogue and people engaged in research across different fields of knowledge.
A Library
to Preserve the Teachings and Make Them Accessible
In Dordogne: Exceptional Western and Tibetan library holdings available to all—from a passing visitor to a university researcher—along with a quiet and comfortable reading room.
With the creation of the Institute, we reunite the conditions necessary to progressively develop a contemporary Buddhism anchored in our daily experience.