Architecture plays an important role in expressing Buddhist ideas. Borobudur, the largest and most impressive of the Buddhist monuments in Indonesia, is a prime example of this. The structure was built using intricately carved stonework that contains thousands of images depicting stories from both Mahayana Buddhism and Javanese culture. The layout of the temple follows a traditional mandala pattern which reflects many aspects of Buddhist cosmology and thought. This includes eight terraces representing different stages on the path to enlightenment, while its bell-shaped stupas symbolize self-purification through meditation. Several statues found around the temple depict various Buddhas who are seen as sources of guidance for spiritual growth and transformation. All these features illustrate how architecture can be used to express complex philosophical concepts associated with Buddhism.