Michael Palin at the Potala Palace - BBC

The destruction of the monasteries began well before the cultural revolution and most had been wrecked before the cultural revolution began.

In 1956 the communists bombed ancient monasteries at Chatreng and Litang, killing thousands of monks and civilians massed there for protection.

Potala Palace and it's surroundings is one place in the world I wish had remained as it was a century ago. At least 5 miles radius around Potala Palace should have been left untouched.

This is like something out of a fantasy novel whose major influence was oriental imperialism.

I didn't know buildings like this still existed...unbelievable.

Tibet isn't just spiritual for Buddhists, its spiritual for people of all faiths I believe. I think that's why it seems so alluring and mystical.

That's great. But, with no disrespect intended, you completely missed my point; I was speaking purely from an architectural standpoint.

Now I feel foolish! Sorry!

we shouldnt blame it directly towards china, it's the communist party that is the puppet master of all this treachery. The nationalists of china didnt even harm the tibetans, so the ccp are the ones to blame.

Ya, thanks for agreeing. The arrogant, materialistic Han-Chinese who have invaded spite on Tibet and ancient Tibetan culture. Pointing to what happened in the US centuries ago does not justify or allow anyone to genuinely rationalize China's invasion, occupation, exploitation and oppression of a peaceful neighbor.

Ya, now it smells worst than poop!

Some people know that 6254 monasteries in Tibet were destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. But how many people are aware that Tibetan culture is still being destroyed? Please watch

The Destruction of Serthar Buddhist Institute in Tibet

and see for yourself.