With the generous support of TEFAF, the Prince Claus Fund was able to provide emergency support to Drametse Lhakang (temple) in Bhutan. Drametse Lhakhang has been severely damaged by the earthquakes that hit eastern Bhutan in 2009 and 2011. Drametse is one of the most important temples in eastern Bhutan not only because of its exquisite architectural beauty but also because it holds the UNESCO-recognised Ngacham mask dances.

Drametse is also the seat of the living lineage of Pema Lingpa, going back to the origins of Bhutan, and one of the few centres of learning where lay people practise sacred meditation techniques. The temple has great significance for the local community. As a community leader told staff of the Prince Claus Fund when they visited in October: “Once we build houses or small settlements in the area, one of the first things we do is to make a path directly leading to Drametse Temple.”

Drametse is the fourth collaboration between the Prince Claus Fund and TEFAF to provide emergency relief in order to save unique cultural heritage affected by natural or man-made disaster.

The Drametse temple complex was at the epicentre of the 2009 earthquake and is situated close to the three villages hardest hit. The recent earthquake of September 2011 has had a severe impact on the structural stability of the buildings. Urgent intervention is needed to remove the threat it poses to human lives, to restore it to full use and to prevent the risk of further damage from future tremors, soil erosion or weathering. Preserving the physical structure is important not only because of the exquisite architectural beauty but also because the temple sustains the community and keeps religious practices alive.

TEFAF supports the Prince Claus Fund to save unique cultural heritage damaged by natural or man-made disaster. Restoring cultural heritage is important to help communities to rebuild their lives after calamity has struck.