The Potala Palace, considered as a landmark and symbol of Tibet, is a great giant palace consisting of many houses, towers, chapels, etc. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the Potala Palace is the highest place in the world. Due to its spectacular architectural style, it is honored as one of the most beautiful architectural constructions in the world.
Like the historical ensemble of Lhasa, the Potala Palace, along with the exceptional Jokhang and Norbulingka Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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| Potala Palace |
The main buildings of the Potala Palace are situated on the Red Hill next to the Lhasa River. It is not only a splendid place, but also a treasure house where you can see the precious arts and learn about Tibetan culture and history. Due to its brilliant arts and history, travelers see it as the no. 1 must see attraction in Tibet.
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| Potala Palace |
Climbing the stairs to the top, you can see the magnificent views of the city of Lhasa as well as beautiful plateau scenery far away.
History of the Potala Palace
The history of the Potala Palace can be traced to approximately 1,300 years since Potala has been through several large reconstructions. It was originally built in the 7th century when the Tubo Kingdom ruled Tibet to house Srongtsen Gampo and his two wives - Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal and Princess Wencheng of the Empire of Strong Flavor.
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After the fall of the Tubo Kingdom, the Potala Palace was almost ruined by constant wars until the 17th century when the most important reconstruction came during Potala history. His Holiness - the Fifth Dalai Lama decided to rebuild the Potala Palace. He received helpful hands from the Qing Empire. The constructions took almost many years.
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| Potala Palace |
At last, the Fifth Dalai Lama moved the government from the Drepung Monastery to Potala, which made Potala the political center and the center of Buddhism in Tibet. Since the Fifth Dalai Lama, several small reconstructions had been conducted by subsequent Dalai Lamas. The main part of the Potala Palace has remained the same as the past.