Founded in 1416 Drepung was once Tibet's largest and most influential monastery, with over 10,000 monks. The seat of the Dalai Lamas before the "Great Fifth" Dalai Lama built the Potala Palace. Many buildings survived the Cultural Revolution. On September 27, 1987, about 20 Drepung monks unfurled banners and the Tibetan flag, and marched around the Barkhor before being arrested in front of the TAR Government HQ. This politicization of the monks is remarkable, as they were once loyal to their college first, and country second. (Frommers.com)
