The ancient city of Pundranagara remains the earliest urban archaeological site in Bangladesh
In short: Buried beneath the red soil of the Barind Tract lies Mahasthangarh, a fortified capital dating back to at least the 3rd century BCE. Once known as Pundranagara, this sprawling site reveals a sophisticated urban history that thrived for over a millennium, protected by the now-diminished Karatoya River.
Mahasthangarh, identified as the ancient capital of Pundravardhana, represents the oldest urban archaeological discovery in Bangladesh. Its significance was confirmed by a 1931 discovery of a limestone slab inscribed in Brahmi script, which serves as an administrative decree from the Mauryan Empire. This artifact dates the site to the 3rd century BCE, marking it as a critical hub of the era. The city was strategically established on one of the highest points in the region, standing 15 to 25 metres above the surrounding flood-prone plains, which provided a natural defense and a stable foundation for its massive fortifications.
The citadel itself is a rectangular enclosure spanning approximately 185 hectares, with ramparts that once rose 11 to 13 metres above the landscape. Excavations, which began systematically in 1928, have uncovered 18 distinct archaeological layers reaching down to virgin soil at a depth of 17 metres. These layers reveal a complex history of occupation, ranging from the 5th century BCE through the 12th century CE. The site is not merely a single fort; it served as the heart of a vast urban complex, with suburbs extending for kilometres in multiple directions, evidenced by numerous surrounding mounds and temple remains.
The site's evolution reflects a blend of religious and administrative shifts. Findings include Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temple remains like Govinda Bhita, and later Islamic structures, such as a mosque built in 1718–19. Despite its historical importance, the site faces modern challenges, including unauthorized construction and the looting of artifacts by locals. Today, the site museum preserves representative findings, including punch-marked coins, terracotta plaques, and stone sculptures, offering a glimpse into a city that once commanded the banks of the Karatoya when it was a mighty river three times the width of the Ganges.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Mahasthangarh
- Also: Wikidata — Mahasthangarh · CC0
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-mahasthangarh.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Historical cities, towns and archaeological sites · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics
