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Located just 46 km away from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi is one of the most popular historical and religious sites in India. It is home to numerous Buddhist Stupas, temples, and viharas. Among others, the Sanchi Stupa is one of the most important ones. It is the oldest stone structure in India, built during the Mauryan period. Moreover, it is a famous spot among Buddhist tourists in India. Situated at Sanchi in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi Stupa is among India’s most notable historic sites. Here are some other notable facts about Sanchi Stupa.
Sanchi Stupa Facts
1. Sanchi Stupa stands as a world heritage site and a popular tourist attraction in India.
2. It remained hidden until the year 1818, when General Taylor rediscovered this site and brought it to the world’s attention.
3. The Stupa is inscribed with Brahmi inscriptions.
4. The Sanchi Stupa has an Ashokan inscription called Schism Edict. Another important inscription is that of Sankha Lipi which is believed to be inscribed during the Gupta period.
5. It has numerous chambers which contain the relics of Buddha.
6. The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka and constructed in honour of Lord Buddha.
7. The height of this great stupa is somewhere around 54 feet.
8. The national emblem of India is inspired by the Ashoka Pillar at Sanchi.
9. It is surrounded by four gateways that demonstrate various phases of Buddha’s life and Jataka tales.
10. The dome of the Sanchi Stupa is a symbol of Dharma, the Wheel of Law.
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11. The Sanchi Stupa is believed to portray the life of Buddha and his journey from the cycle of birth to Moksha.
12. The Stupa is crowned by a chhatra, a parasol-like structure, intended to honour and protect the relics of Buddha.
13. In 1919, Sir John Marshall established an archaeological museum which today is known by the name of Sanchi Museum.
14. Sanchi Stupa was also restored between 1912 and 1919 under the management of Sir John Marshall.
15. Although the Sanchi Stupa is an important Buddhist site, it was never visited by Buddha himself.
Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest and greatest Stone monuments and is also known as Stupa No. 1 or The Great Stupa. Even though it was commissioned by Ashoka, the work was overseen by his daughter Vidisha and his wife Queen Devi. The stupa is spread in circumference of 36.5 metres and 21.64 metres tall with pillars having Greco-Buddhist style. The stupa was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.
Hope you had fun reading about Sanchi Stupa facts. If you want to read more such interesting facts, then you can also visit our blog 15 Facts About India Gate that Students Must Know.