Buddhist Archaeological Sites: Hidden Excavations That Reveal the Early Spread of Buddhism

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  Introduction Buddhist archaeological sites offer invaluable insight into the early history of Buddhism and its peaceful spread across Asia. From rock-cut caves and monasteries to ancient stupas and stone reliefs, these excavations preserve physical evidence of the Buddha’s teachings, monastic life , and artistic traditions that flourished over centuries. Many of these sites remained hidden for centuries before being rediscovered through systematic archaeological excavations. This article explores the significance of Buddhist archaeological sites, major excavation centers, and how these discoveries help us understand early Buddhism. What Are Buddhist Archaeological Sites? Buddhist archaeological sites are locations where physical remains related to Buddhism have been discovered through excavation. These include: • Monasteries ( Viharas ) • Stupas and relic shrines • Rock-cut caves • Sculptures and inscriptions • Ancient manuscripts and seals Such sites date mainly from th...

Bhmala Buddhist complex in pakistan

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The bhamala Buddhist archelogy complexsite  close to khanpur dam at the head of haro valley. The stupa and the monastery date back to 2nd century. They are uniquely significant in gandhara civilization. The largest surviving example particular cross like stupa that resembles to the pyramids. The site of the discovery of the world’s oldest ‘Maha Pari Nirvana’ statue which depicts the death of Buddha. 
                                  The statue which was discovered in 2016, is about 1700 years and 48 feet long. Noted for this archeological style the bhamala complex is said to belong to 2nd to 5th century BCE.The main stupa of Bhamala is unique, with a cruciform plan consisting of a tall square base for the dome above which offset projections for the steps can be seen on all four sides. 
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https://ancientbuddha91.blogspot.comBuddhism flourished in what is now Pakistan some 2,300 years ago, after it took route under Mauryan emperor Ashoka in Takashila (now Taxila), Gandhara art is credited with creating the first carved image of Buddha in human form, most of which are still intact at monasteries and stupas such as Bhamala
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A small stupa adorned with small Buddha statue.

According to the current understandings, the shape of main stupa is cruciform and it is the biggest surviving example of this shape in Taxila and Gandhara region. The stupa is cross shaped and looks like an Aztec Pyramid. There are about nineteen but small votive stupas in courtyard surrounding the main stupa.

It nominated as UNESCO world heritage site. This site is under control of Pakistan government.


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