Thubten Phuntsog Gephel Ling Retreat Center

Category: Religious Architecture > Buddhist Temple

District: Setúbal > Alcácer do Sal > Foros de Corte Pereira

Location

The Thubten Phuntsog Gephel Ling Retreat Centre is located in an environment of remarkable serenity, in the village of Foros de Corte Pereira, which is part of the municipality of Alcácer do Sal. Situated on an extensive property of approximately 63 hectares, the site benefits from a natural and tranquil setting, characteristic of the Alentejo landscape, located midway between Alcácer do Sal and Montemor-o-Novo. The surrounding landscape is marked by a rural environment, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.

Spiritual Identity

Known by its full name, Thubten Phuntsog Gephel Ling, which translates from Portuguese as «The Isle where the Teachings of the Buddha are Fully Present, thereby Spreading Virtue», this sacred space was named by His Holiness Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoché, a prominent figure in the Nyingmapa Tradition. The centre is dedicated to the preservation and transmission of the spiritual tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly the Nyingma and Kagyü lineages, which originated with the Enlightened Master Guru Rinpoché (Padmasambhava), responsible for introducing Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century.

Purpose and Environment

Thubten Phuntsog Gephel Ling is a space for meditation and retreat, designed to offer an environment of profound calm and introspection. Here, all who seek a path to a more balanced and meaningful life are welcomed; prior connection to Buddhism is not required to visit. The centre promotes continuous programs that include teachings, meditation practices, and traditional Vajrayana Buddhist prayers, providing a unique opportunity to explore and experience spiritual values in a context of tranquility. It is a place that invites sharing and enjoyment of what the surrounding nature offers, combining inner awakening with the beauty of the landscape.

An Enduring Legacy

The creation of Thubten Phuntsog Gephel Ling is the realization of a vision shared by the founders of Guhya Mantrika. The aspiration to build a «Celestial Palace Temple of Padmasambhava» and a retreat centre in Portugal arose with the aim of establishing a solid foundation for the development of Dharma in the country, ensuring lasting benefit for future generations. The centre aims to replicate in Portugal the vast possibilities for study and practice found in the East, allowing practitioners access to complete training in the Dzogchen and Mahamudra traditions. Within its grounds, the presence of a Stupa stands out, an architectural element of great symbolic and spiritual value in Buddhism.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt