Survived ancient monasteries in Mongolia attract huge interest. The monastery of Erdene Zuu is considered special among them. In fact, Erdene Zuu Monastery is the temple complex consisting of three separate buildings that are excellent examples of Tibetan, Mongolian, and Chinese architecture. The monastery was founded in the late 16th century. Since then, it has been carrying one constant name. Originally, more than 10 000 lamas were living there.
At present, the monastery is inactive. The Laviran Temple is the only one operating shrine remained on its territory. A museum dedicated to the ancient culture is open in one of the old buildings. Pilgrims and tourists are attracted to the ancient monastery by Buddhist relics gathered within its walls. Those include the statue of Ikh-Tzu, in which relics of Shakyamuni Buddha are hidden. In 2004, the monastery was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pilgrims come from all over the world to bow down at unique relics.
Erdene Zuu Monastery is the witness of many important historical events. It has resisted the invasion of Jungar soldiers more than once. Because of the constant invasions, the monastery was fortifying all the time. It was reconstructed and supplemented with new defensive structures. In 1743, the new temple named in honor of the Buddha Shakyamuni was built there. This is where the legendary statue is kept today. Erdene Zuu Monastery remained active until the 30s of the last century, and, after, it was closed during Choibalsan repression and partly destroyed. Ten years later, the reconstruction of the monastery began. First, a museum was opened in it, and in 2004 a small Buddhist monastery school was started.
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