The Lhasa Atlas Traditional Tibetan Architecture and Townscape

Lhasa is the most beautiful of Tibet's few remaining traditional metropolises. Two of its outstanding structures are the Jokhang Temple, the most respected building in all of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Potala Palace, the Dalai Lamas' traditional residence. Tibetan architecture is being recognized as one of the greatest architectural traditions in the world. The Lhasa Atlas covers the geography, surroundings, historical development, buildings, and townscape of old Lhasa. It also outlines some of the difficulties associated with maintaining the historic townscape amid ongoing urban development and suggests potential solutions.