Heritage sites, Archaeological discoveries, History of Archaeology

Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur

Location

Rajshahi

Country

Bangladesh

Year of Research

1985

Culture

Testimony of the rise of Mahayana Buddhism in Bengal from the 7th century onwards, Somapura Mahavira, or the Great Monastery, was a famous intellectual centre until the 12th century.
Its layout perfectly adapted to its spiritual function, this monastery-city represents a unique artistic achievement.
With its simple, melodious lines and its profusion of carved decoration, it influenced Buddhist architecture as far away as Cambodia.