The Sanchi Stupa was built by the emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. Ashoka was a Mauryan emperor who ruled over much of India. He is known for his conversion to Buddhism and his promotion of the religion throughout his empire.
Why was Sanchi Stupa built?
The Sanchi Stupa was built as a reliquary for the ashes of the Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition, the Buddha's body was cremated and his ashes were divided among eight different stupas. The Sanchi Stupa is one of these eight stupas. It is believed to contain a portion of the Buddha's right collarbone.
The Sanchi Stupa is one of the most important Buddhist monuments in India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist destination. The stupa is a beautiful example of Buddhist architecture and is a testament to the emperor Ashoka's devotion to Buddhism.
Here are some additional details about the Sanchi Stupa:
- The stupa is located on a hilltop in the village of Sanchi, about 45 kilometers northeast of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.
- It is the oldest stone structure in India.
- The stupa is built of red sandstone and has a hemispherical dome.
- The dome is surrounded by a stone balustrade.
- The stupa is decorated with carvings that depict scenes from the Buddha's life and teachings.
- The Sanchi Stupa is a important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world.