Varendra Research Museum
Rajshahi
Varendra Research Museum, located in the heart of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, is the oldest museum in the country, established in 1910. It originated from the Varendra Anushandan Samiti (Varendra Investigation Society) and was officially named in 1919. The museum was founded through the efforts of local scholars and patrons, including Prince Sharat Kumar Ray, who donated personal collections. The museum preserves and researches the history and culture of the ancient Varendra region, encompassing archaeological finds from the Indus Valley civilization to Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim periods. Its galleries exhibit a vast range of artifacts such as stone sculptures, inscriptions in Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, and Bengali, as well as tribal cultural displays. The museum building features a load-bearing brick structure with administrative offices, a library, and residential quarters. It serves as a significant research center affiliated with Rajshahi University since 1964 and remains a popular destination for visitors interested in Bengal's ancient heritage.
ヒント: Visitors are advised to visit during regular museum hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. The best time to visit is during the cooler months to comfortably explore the outdoor garden and exhibits. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the extensive collections and historical context.
興味深い事実
- •Varendra Research Museum is the oldest museum in Bangladesh, established in 1910.
- •The museum's collections include artifacts from the Indus Valley civilization and Sompur, an important Buddhist archaeological site.
- •Prince Sharat Kumar Ray, a local royal figure, was a key donor and founder of the museum.
- •Excavations at Sompur Bihara, a major Buddhist monastery site, were initiated by the museum's founders in 1923.
- •The museum houses inscriptions in multiple ancient languages including Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, and old Bengali.
歴史
Varendra Research Museum was established in 1910 by the Varendra Research Society, founded by Kumar Sarat Kumar Ray and other notable historians and archaeologists.
It was the first museum in East Bengal, created to preserve archaeological finds from the Varendra region, an ancient territory corresponding to northern Bangladesh.
The museum initially housed collections donated by local Rajahs and private collectors.
Excavations at Sompur Bihara began in 1923 in collaboration with the University of Calcutta.
In 1964, the museum became part of Rajshahi University, further solidifying its role as a research institution.
場所ガイド
Gallery One - Indus Valley and Sompur Collections
This gallery displays artifacts from the Indus Valley civilization and includes 265 items excavated from Sompur, along with ancient Sanskrit, Arabic, and Persian scripts.
Gallery Two - Buddhist and Hindu Sculptures
Showcases stone sculptures from Buddhist and Hindu traditions, alongside modern wood sculptures reflecting local artistry.
Galleries Three and Four - Hindu Stone Sculptures
Dedicated to stone sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, illustrating the rich iconography and religious heritage of Bengal.
Gallery Five - Buddhist Sculpture
Focuses on Buddhist sculpture, presenting artistic and religious artifacts from the region's Buddhist past.
Gallery Six - Muslim Period Inscriptions and Sculptures
Exhibits Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, and old Bengali stone inscriptions and sculptured stones from the Muslim period, highlighting cultural transitions.
Indigenous and Tribal Culture Gallery
A recently added gallery displaying artifacts related to the indigenous and tribal cultures of the Rajshahi region, emphasizing local ethnographic heritage.