Fo Guang Shan Vienna

AUSTRIA, Vienna

The temple is a European branch temple of Fo Guang Shan, and it is the largest Buddhist temple in Austria. It was conceived in 1996 when Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, was invited to give lectures and conduct a Ceremony for Taking Refuge. In 1998, Fo Guang Shan was granted official credentials as a religious organization in Austria. Fo Guang Shan Vienna became the only officially approved Chinese Buddhist temple at that time, and joined the Austrian Buddhist Union at the same time. Construction of the temple commenced in 2004 and was completed in 2010.
Occupying an area of 1,712 sq m, this modern building makes use of natural daylight and is powered largely by solar energy. It has three stories and one basement level. It contains the Great Hero Hall, memorial hall, meditation hall, dining hall, music room, and a tea house. The Great Hero Hall enshrines a jade statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, with rows of circular Buddha reliefs behind the statue.
The temple is located in the multicultural 15th district of Vienna, known for its artistic atmosphere. In line with the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, the temple seeks to engage the local musical and artistic communities.