Introduction
Mahasthangarh, the ancient city of Bengal, is a historically significant archaeological site located in Bogra district of Bangladesh. It is said to be the oldest city in Bangladesh, dating back to at least the 3rd century BC, and is the site of numerous ancient ruins and artifacts. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be the greatest archaeological site in Bangladesh.
History of Mahasthan Garh
Mahasthangarh is located 18 kilometers to the north of Bogra town, and is widely believed to be the site of the ancient city of Pundranagara, which was the capital of Pundravardhana, a kingdom of the Hindu-Buddhist period in the Indian subcontinent. The city is said to have been founded by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. It is also mentioned in the famous Hindu epic Mahabharata as the city of King Pundra.
The city was abandoned in the 10th century AD and was rediscovered in the 19th century by the British. The ruins of the city are spread over an area of about 8 square kilometers and consists of numerous ancient monuments, including a citadel, palace, stupas, temples, and monasteries.
Archaeological Sites of Mahasthan Garh
Mahasthangarh is home to a number of archaeological sites, including the citadel, the palace, stupas, temples, and monasteries. The most important of these is the citadel, which is located on a raised mound and is surrounded by a wall. The citadel has several structures and ruins, including a temple dedicated to Shiva, a palace, and a large stupa.
The palace was built by the Pundra rulers and consists of several chambers, courtyards, and terraces. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and is said to have been built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The stupas are said to have been built by the Pundra rulers and are believed to contain the remains of their kings.
The other archaeological sites include several monasteries, temples, and stupas. These include the Bhasu Vihara, the Nat Mandir, the Shanti Vihara, the Dharmarajika Stupa, the Rangamati Stupa, and the Goa Stupa.
Cultural Significance of Mahasthan Garh
Mahasthangarh is an important part of Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and is a popular tourist destination. It is visited by thousands of tourists every year and is a popular spot for religious ceremonies, such as the annual Maghi Purnima fair. The city is also home to several festivals, such as the Mahasthan Festival, which is held every year in February and celebrates the cultural and religious heritage of the city.
Conclusion
Mahasthangarh is an important archaeological site in Bangladesh and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to a number of important archaeological sites and monuments, including a citadel, palace, stupas, temples, and monasteries. It is an important part of the cultural heritage of Bangladesh and is a popular tourist destination.