New Delhi: Madhya Pradesh is one of those states in Indian which has a rich history and culture. The state has several historical sites which represent the heritage of the place. The area covered by the present-day Madhya Pradesh includes the area of the ancient Avanti Mahajanapada, whose capital Ujjain was an important city in India in the 6th century BCE. Several major dynasties controlled the region and in this article, we will take a look at some of the famous historical sites in Madhya Pradesh.
Famous historical places in Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho Group of Monuments
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments are a group of Hindu and Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district. The temples are famous for their Nagara-style architectural symbolism and a few erotic sculptures. The Chandela dynasty built most of the temples between 885 CE and 1000 CE. In 1986, the monuments at Khajuraho became UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sanchi
Sanchi Stupa is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, in Madhya Pradesh’s Raisen district. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India and is one of the brightest examples of this country’s architecture. Mauryan emperor Ashoka originally commissioned it in the 3rd century BCE.
Gwalior Fort
The Gwalior Fort in Madhya Pradesh was called the “pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind” by Mughal Emperor Babur. It stands out due to its impregnability and magnificence and has also been nicknamed the Gibraltar of India. While the true story of its construction is ambiguous, local legends indicate that it was constructed in the third century CE by a local chieftain named Suraj Sen in honor of Gwalipa, the sage who cured him of leprosy.
Mandu
Mandu is an ancient city in the present-day Mandav area of the Dhar district. In the 11th century, Mandu was the sub division of the Tarangagadh or Taranga kingdom. This fortress town on a rocky outcrop is known for its architecture. Important places in Mandu are Roopmati’s Pavilion, Baz Bahadur’s Palace, Rewa Kund, Jami Masjid, and Jahaz Mahal.
Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka
The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are in the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains in Madhya Pradesh. Within massive sandstone outcrops are five clusters of natural rock shelters, displaying paintings that appear to date from the Mesolithic Period right through to the historical period. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has the oldest-known rock art in India, as well as is one of the largest prehistoric complexes.
Hoshang Shah’s Tomb
Hoshang Shah’s Tomb is considered to be the first marble tomb in India. It was constructed in the 15th century and reportedly, before the Taj Mahal’s construction, Shah Jahan sent his architect Ustad Hamid and the team to examine the intricacies and the unique architectural elements of the tomb. One can also find a predominant influence of Hindu architecture in the designs of the pillars and brackets of the tomb.
Lalbagh Palace
Lalbagh Palace is situated in Indore and was built by the Holkar Dynasty. In 1886, Tukojirao Holkar II built this palace. Later, his son Shivajirao Holkar continued its construction and his grandson, Tukojirao Holkar III further expanded it. It is inscribed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a protected monument.
Madhya Pradesh boasts a wealth of historical sites reflecting its rich past. From the ancient Buddhist Sanchi Stupa and the magnificent Khajuraho temples to the imposing Gwalior Fort and the enigmatic rock shelters of Bhimbetka, the region offers a captivating journey through time. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
