President Mattarella gave Norbu the title of “Commander in the Order Of Merit of the Italian Republic.”

Dzogchen teacher and Buddhist scholar Namkai Norbu was bestowed the title of Commander in the Order Of Merit of the Italian Republic by President Sergio Mattarella.

Norbu is the president of the International Dzogchen Community, as well as the founder of Merigar West Buddhist Center and the Museum of Asian Art and Culture — both of which are located in Arcidosso, Italy.

“The Dzogchen Community is happy about this important recognition of our beloved and precious Master by civil society,” the International Dzogchen Community wrote in an online statement.

The Order Of Merit of the Italian Republic rewards people in the arts, the economy, and the military who carry out social, philanthropic, and humanitarian work. Norbu’s conferment ceremony, which took place on September 10 in Arcidosso, was attended by institutional guests and the title was delivered in the name of President Mattarella.

To celebrate, the International Dzogchen Community is hosting a lunch at the Yellow House at Merigar on September 16 where Norbu will make a brief appearance.