Overview:
The Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, located in Madhya Pradesh, are among the oldest and best-preserved Buddhist sites in India. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sanchi is home to a remarkable collection of stupas, monasteries, temples, and pillars that date back to the 3rd century BCE.
Commissioned originally by Emperor Ashoka the Great, Sanchi symbolizes the spread of Buddhism through art, architecture, and devotion. The site beautifully captures the spiritual journey of Buddhism — from the time of Ashoka to the Gupta period.
Major Monuments at Sanchi
1. The Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1)
- The largest and oldest structure, built originally of brick by Emperor Ashoka.
- Later enlarged with a hemispherical dome (Anda), harmika, and chatra (umbrella).
- Surrounded by four elaborately carved gateways (toranas) representing the life of Buddha and Jataka tales.
- The carvings show scenes of Buddha’s enlightenment, miracles, and symbolic footprints, as Buddha was often represented aniconically.
2. Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western Gateways (Toranas)
- Each gateway is a masterpiece of stone sculpture, richly decorated with motifs of lotus flowers, elephants, lions, and celestial beings.
- Eastern Gateway: Symbolizes the birth of Buddha.
- Southern Gateway: Depicts Ashoka’s visit to the Bodhi Tree.
- Western Gateway: Illustrates Buddha’s enlightenment and miracles.
- Northern Gateway: Portrays the Buddha’s life and past incarnations.
3. Ashokan Pillar
- Near the southern gateway stands a polished sandstone pillar with an Ashokan inscription written in Brahmi script.
- Originally topped by a lion capital, symbolizing power and dharma (now housed in the site museum).
4. Stupa No. 2 and Stupa No. 3
- Stupa No. 2: Contains relief carvings of Jataka stories — among the earliest examples of narrative Buddhist art.
- Stupa No. 3: Houses relics of Sariputta and Mahamoggallana, two chief disciples of Buddha.
5. Monasteries and Temples
- The site contains ruins of several monastic complexes (Viharas) where monks once studied and meditated.
- Temple No. 17 (Gupta Period) – One of the earliest known examples of classical Indian temple architecture.
6. Sanchi Museum
- Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
- Displays sculptures, relics, inscriptions, and architectural fragments from various stupas.