Finding Buddha in Spain is probably the last thing you'd expect on the Costa del Sol, but that is exactly what happened today. Tucked away in the foothills of the Maroma mountain, north of the town of Velez de Malaga, is a Buddhist Stupa that looks out across the valley dotted with mango, avocado and olive orchards. It's called the Kalachakra stupa.
Tucked away it sure was. The drive through the countryside up the steep roads can only be done by 4 wheel drive. After what seemed like eternity of being shaken about in the car that was bouncing on the dirt road ridden with holes and rocks, we reached a serene looking driveway lined with pine trees. It was cordoned off with a metal chain, but we parked the car, climbed over the chain and started walking up the driveway. Between the coniferous branches of the trees, glimpses of the glaringly white stupa were visible as we approached the open space.
I know nothing abut Buddhism, but this place just oozed serenity. There were several retreats hidden in the bushes on the side. There was a small shrine with pictures of the founder and offerings to Buddha and strings with colourful flags were fluttering in the wind. The views were far-reaching with several white villages draped on the hills around.
It also said that aside from being a place for offerings and meditation, a stupa fulfills wishes. You just need to walk around it clockwise and your wishes might very well come true. I did walk a couple of rounds around it, wishing for good fortune and happiness.
On our way down to the car, I saw something glistening in the middle of the road. When I looked a little closer it turned out to be a 5 euro cent coin. Coincidence? It did make me wonder...
What a lovely hidden gem. Wishing you more happy coincidences!
ReplyDeleteYes, you never know around here!!
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