stefano boeri encircles new prayer and meditation center in nepal with giant lush gardens

stefano boeri designs meditation space in nepal

Stefano Boeri Architetti‘s new project aims to revitalize the revered Ramagrama Stupa in Nepal, a site of profound importance in Buddhism. The initiative seeks to honor and preserve this historical and spiritual landmark while creating a space for prayer, meditation, and peaceful contemplation. Ramagrama, nestled in the Parasi district of Nepal, holds immense importance as an archaeological site housing a portion of Buddha’s relics under an ancient Bodhi Tree. This site, located just 50 kilometers east of Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace, represents a precious cultural and religious hub for Buddhism. The current green mound of the Ramagrama Stupa, adorned by the centuries-old tree Bodhi Tree, signifies unity and harmony in Buddhist teachings through its integration of various plant species.

Working in collaboration with local stakeholders and adhering to UNESCO’s guidelines for heritage conservation, the architects seek to enhance the site’s prominence while ensuring its sustainable preservation. The architectural plan unfolds as a pilgrimage, guiding visitors through a sequence of spaces that accentuate the Stupa’s symbolism. It includes monumental gateways marking cardinal directions and a central ‘Peace Meadow’ designed for contemplation. Surrounding this area are cultural spaces and meditation zones enveloped by the lush Biodiversity Ring Garden.

one of the most significant ongoing heritage projects in Nepal

Stefano Boeri Architetti’s masterplan for the Ramagrama Stupa was unveiled during a significant ceremony attended by Buddhist monks, government officials, and the public, introducing a balanced integration of nature and architectural design. The scheme features a central ‘Peace Meadow,’ 600 meters in diameter, covering an open space for contemplation, reminiscent of the symbolic essence of a mandala. Encircled by the Biodiversity Ring Garden, this sizable meadow is flanked by spaces for cultural activities, meditation, and necessary facilities, creating a circular layout conducive to quiet reflection. The Biodiversity Ring Garden, designed with a slope, encompasses 80,000 plants from 70 different species indigenous to the Terai plain, where Buddha was born. Ending in a raised circular pathway shaded by trees, this garden offers a comprehensive view of the Ramagrama Stupa.

this green space symbolizes the unity and harmony intrinsic to Buddhist teachings

Addressing local climatic conditions, particular attention has been given to shading the pedestrian paths, ensuring that monks and visitors can utilize the space comfortably at all times of the day and throughout various seasons. The project pays tribute to Kenzo Tange’s work while incorporating locally sourced materials, echoing the region’s architectural tradition and reducing environmental impact. To accentuate the site’s unique essence, the project proposes a gradual approach featuring a sequence of spaces that highlight the symbolic importance of the Ramagrama Stupa. This progression begins with four grand portals marking the four access directions leading up to the central hill, aimed at enhancing the perception of the site’s genuine uniqueness. ‘This project represents an extraordinary challenge for us: that of creating a meaningful center for prayer, meditation and peace in one of the most sacred sites of Buddhism,’ shares the team. ‘Due to its truly universal value and collaborative nature across cultures and nations, this project will become one of the most significant ongoing cultural heritage projects in Nepal’.

project info:

architects: Stefano Boeri Architetti | @stefanoboeriarchitetti

partner: Stefano Boeri, Yibo Xu, Pietro Chiodi, Francesca Cesa Bianchi, Marco Giorgio

design team: Cecilia Picello (Project Director), Mohamed Hassan Elgendy, Xu Lyubao

consultants: Matheus Cartocci (Eastern philosophy); Laura Gatti (botanical expert)