Varendra Museum: Explore the Rich History and Culture of Bangladesh
Varendra Museum is an important cultural and historical landmark for the people of Bangladesh. Located in Rajshahi, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of the region’s long and varied history. From ancient stone sculptures to coins and pottery, the Varendra Museum has something for everyone to enjoy.
History of Varendra Museum
The Varendra Museum was established in 1910 as a part of the Rajshahi College. It was initially set up to preserve the archaeological artifacts of the region, and it soon became the first museum of Bangladesh. In 1917, the museum was shifted to the present location in the Rajshahi University campus.
Over the years, the museum has been enriched with artifacts and artworks from various parts of the country, and is now home to a huge collection of valuable items. The Varendra Museum is also the oldest museum in the country and is a popular tourist destination.
Highlights of Varendra Museum
The Varendra Museum is home to a huge collection of artifacts and artworks that showcase the rich history and culture of Bangladesh. Some of the highlights of the museum include:
- Stone sculptures and terracotta plaques: The museum houses a large collection of ancient stone sculptures, terracotta plaques, and other artifacts from the Pala and Sena periods (8th-12th centuries).
- Coins: The museum has a large collection of coins from various parts of the subcontinent, including from the Mughal, British, and Indian periods.
- Pottery: The museum houses a vast collection of pottery from the early Harappan, Mauryan, Gupta, and Pala periods.
- Paintings: The museum also houses a collection of paintings from the late 18th and 19th centuries, including works from renowned Rajput and Mughal painters.
- Textiles: The museum has a collection of textiles, including traditional clothing, sarees, and other embroidered textiles.
- Manuscripts: The museum also houses a collection of manuscripts, including religious texts, literature, and historical documents.
How to Reach Varendra Museum
Varendra Museum is located in the Rajshahi University campus, which is about 5 km away from the Rajshahi town. The museum can be easily accessed by public transport from Rajshahi town. The closest airport is Shah Makhdum Airport, which is about 8 km away from the museum.
Opening Hours
Varendra Museum is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, except on government holidays.
Conclusion
The Varendra Museum is an important cultural and historical landmark in Bangladesh. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. From stone sculptures to coins, pottery, paintings, textiles, and manuscripts, the museum has something for everyone to explore. So, if you are looking to explore the history and culture of Bangladesh, make sure to visit the Varendra Museum.