Buddhism - one of the most ancient world religions and spiritual basis of many modern countries. Without knowledge of bases of buddhistic world view it is impossible to grasp the great cultures of East. Yet more surprizing, that without these knowledge not to understand the picture of the world of thousands of Europeans, Americans and habitants of other countries and continents that divide a buddhistic look into life or absorbed aesthetics of buddhistic art and philosophy. This book - the newest and unique guide-book on the world of buddhism in that everybody will find for itself anything interesting, including: rare photos, wonderful works of art, map, instructive histories, legends, disserting upon philosophy and morality, symbols, biographies of saints and devotees and other great deal. A book is written with one of the best experts on a buddhism, by the candidate of historical sciences by Elena Леонтьевой. In preparation of edition to printing specialists, perfectly understanding buddhistic history, philosophy and art, took part. An encyclopaedia contains more than 250 illustrations and geographical maps.For the wide circle of readers.