UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

SANCHI STUPA

Sanchi Stupa is a collection of Buddhist structures, including monolithic pillars,

palaces, temples, and monasteries, all of which are located around 40
kilometers from Bhopal. The majority of the structures date to the first and
second centuries BCE. It is the oldest Buddhist shrine still standing, and up until
the 12th century AD, it was a significant Buddhist center in India.
The Sanchi Stupa, the second-largest stupa, is a significant monument built to
depict the life and journey of Lord Buddha. The oldest stone building in the
nation, this monument draws throngs of tourists and historians. The four
entrances to the Sanchi Stupa serve as a perfect example of excellent inscribed
architecture. The columns and pillars of the stupas are beautifully inscribed
with the relics of Lord Buddha and his lectures. Sanchi was also known as Bota
Sriparvata, Kakanaya, and Kakanava during the Mauryan Empire. It is a well-
known place of pilgrimage for Buddhists. Additionally, bas-relief and high-relief
methods are used to vividly convey stories and facts having significant religious
and historical value. The skillful representation of the full range of symbolism
through plants, animals, people, and Jataka stories demonstrates how art has
evolved through the fusion of indigenous and non-indigenous sculpting
traditions.