stupa

/ˈstupə/

Other forms: stupas

A stupa is a Buddhist shrine used for meditation. Stupas are mounded or dome-shaped, and always include a path around the outside used for meditative walking.

The Sanskrit root of stupa means "heap," and the oldest of these religious buildings resemble a heap of earth. Later versions were made of stone, smoothly domed and often ornately decorated. The stupa holds particular importance in Buddhism, as the cremated remains of the Buddha himself are said to be spread among eight stupas in South Asia.

Definitions of stupa

1. noun

   a dome-shaped shrine erected by Buddhists
   synonyms: tope

   type of:

   shrine

   a place of worship hallowed by association with some sacred thing or person