Sarnath is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage centres of India. Buddha, attaining enlightenment (Buddha-hood) at Bodh Gaya came to Sarnath and delivered his first sermon to five disciples named Kaundinya, Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanaman and Ashvajit for redeeming humanity. It is this place where the foundation of a new order of monks (Sangha) and a new order of religious doctrine (Dhamma) was laid.
Archaeological museum Sarnath is the oldest site museum of Archaeological Survey of India. 
In order to keep the antiquities found from the site, a decision was taken in 1904 by the Government to construct a site museum adjacent to the excavated site at Sarnath. It was due to initiative of Sir John Marshall., the then Director General of Archaeology in India, that this museum was created.
In order to keep the antiquities found from the site, a decision was taken in 1904 by the Government to construct a site museum adjacent to the excavated site at Sarnath. It was due to initiative of Sir John Marshall., the then Director General of Archaeology in India, that this museum was created. 
The sculpture work on the stone still shows the intricate designs
Dhamekh Stupa, according to an inscription dated 1026 A.D. states it's old name was Dharma Chakra Stupa. It commemorates the spot where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon.
Locally known as the Dhamekh tower, this stupa is situated a little to the north-east of the modern Jain temple. It consists of a stone basement, 93 feet in diameter and solidly built, the stones being clamped together with iron, to the height of 43 feet. This structural technic is evident all across India, used to secure walls or steps. Above that it is in brickwork rising to a height of 104 feet above the terrace of the temple, and 143 feet when including its foundation.
Jain Temple
Poppies and daisies in the foreground, my favourite flowers.
No comments:
Post a Comment