SANCHI

The Buddhist monuments at Sanchi were built over a period of 1400 years, from the 3rd century BC to the 12th century AD. Apart from the impressive stupas, this important site - visited by thousands of Buddhist pilgrims each year - includes magnificent carved gateways, a famed Ashokan pillar, and various monasteries and temples.

The book begins with a succinct overview of Sanchi's historical background, also tracing the life and works of the Buddha and the evolution of his religion. The author then takes the reader on a tour of the site, his erudite commentary highlighting the architectural and artistic significance of various features of the monuments. This detailed description is brought to life using numerous plans, maps and photographs, making the book invaluable to all visitors to Sanchi

Written by a leading expert in Indian archaeological history, this accessible and readable book will be welcomed by archaeologists and art historians, as well as general readers and informed tourists interested in India's most famous Buddhist monuments.

(Note: Jacket Photograph: Eastern Gateway, front, Shalabhanjika. Courtesy the author.)

About the Author:

M. K. Dhavalikar retired in Professor of Archaeology and Director of Deccan College Post-Graduate Research Institute, Pune. His many books include Ajanta: A Cultural Study (1974), Kailas-Ellora: Masterpieces of Rashtrakuta Art (1983) and Ellora (Monumental Legacy Series, OUP, 2002).

Acknowledgements

Illustrations

ONE: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

TWO: BUDDHISM

THREE: THE MONUMENTS

The Great Stupa (Mahastupa)
The Gateways (Toranas)
The Ashokan Pillar
Stupa 3
Other Stupas
Pillars
Temples
Retaining Wall

Monasteries
Buildings 49, 50, and 32
Building 43
Temple and Monastery 45
Building 44

Temple 40
Monasteries 38, 36, and 37
Building 8

Monastery
Stupa
Sculptures
Tank

Practical Information

Glossary

Further Reading