- Pakistan 1963. Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur.
Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara
at Paharpur (1985)
Bangladesh
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Evidence of the rise of Mahayana Buddhism in Bengal from the 7th century
onwards, Somapura Mahavira, or the Great Monastery, was a renowned intellectual
centre until the 12th century. Its layout perfectly adapted to its religious
function, this monastery-city represents a unique artistic achievement. With its
simple, harmonious lines and its profusion of carved decoration, it influenced
Buddhist architecture as far away as Cambodia.
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Bangladesh, formerly known as East Pakistan, broke away from Pakistan in April 1971, proclaiming its independence. It consists of 14 former eastern districts of Bengal and the former Sylhet district of Assam province of India. Although the ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur is located in present-day Bangladesh, this is the reason why the stamp shown is from Pakistan (former West Pakistan).
Sources and links:
Other World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh (on this site). Please refer to the UNESCO-listing, Bangladesh Section, for further information about the individual properties.
Revised 21 jul 2006 |
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