Explore the Nalanda, Sompura, Oddantapura, Vikramshila, and Takshashila.

Construction:

• When was it built: 5th century CE
• Who built it: Originally by Emperor Kumaragupta I of Gupta Dynasty; Expansion works continued during and after Gupta period
• Where is it located: Nalanda district, Bihar, India
• Why was it built: As Mahavihara (large Buddhist monastery)

• Founded in the 5th century CE during the Gupta Empire.
• Expanded under subsequent dynasties like the Pala Empire.
• Architectural layout included temples, stupas, and lecture halls.

Importance:

• Renowned as a center of learning and Buddhist studies.
• Attracted scholars from across Asia, contributing to intellectual and cultural exchange.
• Library housed a vast collection of manuscripts on various subjects.

Construction:

• Odantapuri, in ancient times, was a celebrated Buddhist centre of learning (vihara) in India.
• Identified with modern Bihar Sharif in Bihar state.
• It was founded in the 7th century CE by Gopala, the first ruler of the Pala dynasty.
• No doubt it was founded in emulation of its neighbor Nalanda, another distinguished centre of Buddhist learning.

Construction:

• Founded in the ancient period, with significant development during the Maurya and Gupta periods.
• Located in present-day Pakistan, northwest of Islamabad.
• Comprised of Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and educational institutions.

Importance:

• Renowned as a center of learning for various disciplines, including Buddhism, philosophy, and medicine.
• Attracted students and scholars from across Asia, contributing to cultural and intellectual exchanges.
• Archaeological remains provide insights into ancient urban planning and educational systems.