What structure, shaped like a dome or mound, serves as a shrine in Buddhism?

The structure that serves as a shrine in Buddhism, shaped like a dome or mound, is the stupa. Stupas are important architectural elements in Buddhist tradition, symbolizing the universe and serving as a focal point for meditation and pilgrimage. They often house relics, such as remains of the Buddha or other revered monks, and are designed to promote mindfulness and spiritual contemplation.

Unlike pagodas, which typically have multiple tiers and are often associated with East Asian styles of architecture, stupas are characterized by their hemispherical shape and solid structure. Monasteries are communities where monks live and practice, while temples serve as places of worship and ritual, but they do not share the specific domed form of a stupa. Recognizing these distinctions helps to appreciate the unique role that stupas play within the larger context of Buddhist practices and beliefs.