Somapura Mahavihara: The Mysterious Ruins with a Unique History

What is Somapura Mahavihara?

Somapura Mahavihara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bangladesh. It is a Buddhist monastery and the largest known ancient Buddhist monastery in South Asia. Somapura Mahavihara was built during the 8th century by the Pala Dynasty, which ruled the Bengal region of the Indian subcontinent. Somapura Mahavihara multiple shrines reside here, along with various stupas, viharas, and a library.

A Unique History

Despite its cultural importance, Somapura Mahavihara’s history is shrouded in mystery. According to legend, a powerful Buddhist ruler named Dharmapala founded the monastery to serve as a training center for Buddhist scholars. However, after 300 years of prosperity, the monastery was eventually abandoned and fell into ruins.

An alternative theory is that the Pala Dynasty initially constructed Somapura Mahavihara to serve as a royal palace. Later on, they converted it into a Buddhist monastery.

Regardless of its true history, one thing is certain: Somapura Mahavihara was an impressive structure of its time. The complex is thought to have housed up to 5,000 novice monks at any one time and had a number of impressive features, including an elaborate drainage system, a bathing pond, and an extensive library.

Somapura Mahavihara: A Treasure Trove of Artifacts

Since its rediscovery in the 16th century, Somapura Mahavihara has been the source of numerous incredible discoveries. For example, archaeologists have uncovered a massive stone image of Buddha, the largest found in South Asia.

Additionally, the monastery’s library, which once housed thousands of manuscripts, has yielded many valuable texts, including ancient Indian medical treatises.

Somapura Mahavihara: A Must-Visit Tourist Destination

Despite its ruined state, Somapura Mahavihara continues to attract tourists from all over the world. Visitors come to the site to marvel at the intricate architecture and to explore the vast complex.

If you’re planning a tourist trip to Bangladesh, be sure to add Somapura Mahavihara to your itinerary. Who knows what other incredible discoveries you may uncover!