Mahasthangarh
Rajshahi
Mahasthangarh, located near Bogra in Bangladesh, is the earliest known urban archaeological site in the country, representing the ancient city of Pundranagara, the capital of Pundravardhana. This fortified citadel, roughly rectangular and covering approximately 185 hectares, dates back to at least the 3rd century BCE, as evidenced by a Prakrit inscription in Brahmi script. The city was significant during the Maurya Empire and remained in use until the 8th century CE. The site includes massive ramparts rising 11 to 13 meters above the surrounding terrain, with notable features such as ancient wells, palaces, temples, and gateways named Kata Duar, Dorab Shah Toran, Burir Fatak, and Tamra Dawaza. The Karatoya River, once a mighty waterway, flows along the eastern side of the citadel. Excavations have revealed numerous mounds outside the fortified area, indicating a large suburban settlement. A site museum near the riverbank displays artifacts uncovered from the area. Mahasthangarh’s elevated location on the Barind Tract provided natural flood protection and strategic advantage, contributing to its historical importance. Today, it remains a vital archaeological and cultural heritage site, drawing visitors interested in ancient urban development and South Asian history.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to plan their trip during the cooler months to avoid the intense heat of summer. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance if possible, and to visit the on-site museum to gain deeper insight into the artifacts and history. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the extensive area and uneven terrain. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the site's historical context. Local regulations prohibit unauthorized excavation or removal of artifacts, so visitors should respect preservation efforts.
Faits intéressants
- •Mahasthangarh is the earliest urban archaeological site discovered in Bangladesh.
- •The citadel's ramparts rise 11 to 13 meters above the surrounding land, covering about 185 hectares.
- •A limestone slab with a Prakrit inscription dating the site to at least the 3rd century BCE was found here.
- •The Karatoya River, once much wider than the Ganges, flows adjacent to the site.
- •Several ancient gateways have distinct names: Kata Duar (north), Dorab Shah Toran (east), Burir Fatak (south), and Tamra Dawaza (west).
Histoire
Mahasthangarh was established at least by the 3rd century BCE, as indicated by a land grant inscription in Brahmi script.
It served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Pundravardhana and was an important city under the Maurya Empire.
The fortified citadel remained in use through the early medieval period until the 8th century CE.
The site was first documented by Western explorers in the early 19th century, with Alexander Cunningham identifying it as Pundranagara in 1879.
Excavations began in the 1920s, revealing its extensive urban layout and fortifications.
Over the centuries, the name evolved from Pundranagara to Mahasthangarh, reflecting linguistic and cultural changes in the region.
Guide du lieu
Citadel Ramparts3rd century BCE to 8th century CE
The massive fortified walls form a rectangular enclosure roughly 1.5 km by 1.37 km, rising up to 13 meters high, representing the defensive heart of the ancient city.
Jiat Kunda
An ancient well within the citadel, believed by locals to have life-giving powers according to legend.
Parasuramer Basgriha
The remains of a palace attributed to a king named Parasuram within the citadel area.
Govinda Bhita Temple
A temple dedicated to Govinda located just outside the citadel on the banks of the Karatoya River, near the site museum.
Site Museum
Museum displaying representative archaeological findings from Mahasthangarh, providing context and interpretation for visitors.
Contact
Téléphone: 01842-477878