The retreat center
in Alexandria
In Alexandria village (Ulyanovsk region of Russia) the retreat center for Volga area and european part of Russia is being created.
This place was visited by Lama Ole Nydahl in 1996. Remarking that it's very beautiful and open place, he expressed a desire for creating here a center for retired meditations.
The area description.
The Middle-russian elevation; 250 m over sea level. The village Alexandria is situated at the bottom of big hill, from which a wide panorama opens. There is birch grove at the top of the hill - a mushroom place. From under the hill, seven wells outflow. There's an opportunity to channel their waters to the houses.
The village consists of 20-30 houses. Generally, pensioners live there. Many houses are for sale. One can buy brick house for $500 only. It's possible to purchase all natural products from local people: milk, egg, meat, onion, carrot and potato - for a little money or just for a help to old single women on her household.
What's done:
- In 1995, a house with iron roof (former school, built in 20ths of red brick) was bought. Area: 120 sq. m.
- In 1996, bought was the house next to the school, of red brick and with iron roof, too. It's area is 15 sq. m.
- For the rehabilitation, woodworker and welder was purchased.
Plans for the closest future.
- To make small house habitationable even in cold seasons. A group of buddhist-idealists is already formed and began the reparation.
- To buy another three houses which Lama Ole pointed to.
- To settle down and enlarge ourselves - and in future perspect, to build buddhist village. There're all possibilities for that: beautiful pond, fresh air, berry and mushrooms. Please come - find for yourself brick-made house!
- To order the official project of reconstruction of the main building and adjoined houses.
We invite all of you who want to participate in the building process. We'll provide you with free accomodation and feed. Any help of yours with money, materials, tools, food is also very appreciated.
Our contact e-mails: asj@mail.uln.ru, tns@sstu.samara.ru.
Photo: a pond created by wells.