Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi: One of the Oldest Buddhist Sanctuaries in India!

The Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, located in Madhya Pradesh, are among the most significant and well-preserved historical sites representing early Buddhist architecture. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, these monuments date back to the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE, showcasing the evolution of Buddhist art, architecture, and religious traditions over centuries. 

History 

Sanchi is home to some of the oldest Buddhist structures in India. They were originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. He was a great patron of Buddhism and built the Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1) at Sanchi, which remains the most iconic monument at the site. Subsequent rulers constructed several other stupas, temples, monasteries, and pillars, making Sanchi a major centre for Buddhist learning and pilgrimage. 

Architectural Marvels at Sanchi

Stupa No. 1

This is the largest and the most famous monument in the Sanchi Group of Buddhist Monuments. It was originally built by Ashoka and later expanded during the Shunga period (2nd century BCE). It features a massive hemispherical dome and a central relic chamber that make it the Great Stupa of the other. The highlight of this stupa is the four intricately carved toranas (gateways) representing scenes from the life of Buddha and Jataka tales. 

Ashoka Pillar

Located near the Great Stupa or Stupa No. 1 is the Sanchi Ashoka Pillar, a monolithic sandstone pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka around the 3rd century BCE. The capital features four lions, similar to the Sarnath Lion Capital, India's national emblem. The inscriptions on the pillar emphasise Ashoka’s Dharma (moral code). 

Stupa No. 2 and Stupa No. 3 

Stupa No. 2 has beautiful railings with carvings depicting Buddhist legends. Although Buddha never visited the site in any of his former lives or during his earthly existence, the religious nature of this shrine is obvious. The chamber of relics of Stupa 3 contained the remains of Sariputra, a disciple of Shakyamuni who died six months before his master. The occupants of the “small vehicle,” or Hinayana, especially venerate Sariputra.

Monasteries and Temples

The monasteries and temples at Sanchi reflect the dynamic evolution of Buddhist architecture over the centuries. Dating largely from the Gupta period, these structures reveal early experiments in temple design and monastic layouts that would later influence Buddhist architecture across India and beyond. Notably, remnants of several monastery complexes and temple ruins suggest a vibrant community of practitioners who engaged in scholarly pursuits, religious rituals, and artistic endeavours. Among these, Temple No. 17 stands out as an early example of a dedicated religious edifice, characterised by its structural innovations and decorative motifs that hint at both local traditions and broader Buddhist influences. These ancient edifices not only served as centres for worship and learning but also symbolised the enduring spiritual legacy of Buddhism at Sanchi, drawing insights into how religious life was interwoven with art, culture, and governance during that formative period.

Museum at Sanchi 

The Sanchi Archaeological Museum, established by Sir John Marshall in 1919, houses artefacts from the Sanchi Buddhist complex. In 1966, it moved to a building at the foot of the stupa. The museum stores sculptures, inscriptions, and other artefacts found at the site. 

Cultural and Religious Importance

Sanchi was never visited by Buddha himself but became a major Buddhist centre due to royal patronage. The carvings and inscriptions depict various forms of Buddhist art and teachings, including Jataka tales, which narrate stories of Buddha’s previous lives. The site reflects the transition from Hinayana (Theravada) to Mahayana Buddhism. 

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, Sanchi remains an important symbol of India's rich Buddhist heritage. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) actively preserves and maintains the site, ensuring that its artistic and historical legacy endures for future generations.