Milton Keynes Peace Pagoda 2012

Built by the monks and nuns of the Nipponzan Myohoji, this was the first Peace Pagoda to be built in the western hemisphere and enshrines sacred relics of Lord Buddha.The Inauguration ceremony, on 21st September 1980, was presided over by the late most Venerable Nichidattsu Fujii, founder and preceptor of the order of Nipponzan Myohoji. Religious leaders from all over the world attended. Saplings from the Sacred Bohdi Tree under which the Buddha attained Enlightenment were also presented.


A thousand cherry trees and cedars are planted on the hill around the Pagoda in remembrance of the victims of all wars. They were donated by the ancient Japanese town of Yoshino, famous for the beauty of its cherry blossom.

The Pagoda is a sanctuary and permanent refuge for all beings. It is built to further humanity's quest and prayer that the world may be saved from nuclear annihilation. ( source [link] )

Went there yesterday...seriously grey day!!!...enter HDR

3x3 exposure pano, processed in Photomatix & then merged in CS5...quite a feat getting the 3 together too