Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c15.21

c15.21

Although of varying dimensions, the plan and general composition of the stupas of the south were approximately the same, and the description of one will suffice for all. Undoubtedly the finest of these monuments was that at Amaravati, which occupied an elevated site on the south bank of the Kistna river, where was also situated Dhanyakataka, the later capital of the Andhras. In the early years of the Christian era this city was a place of great importance, and towards the east of it was a large area containing the Buddhist sanctuary with the stupa its dominating feature. Of the Andhran capital nothing now remains, and of the towering white monument which was undoubtedly its chief glory, little more than an irregular trench now marks its original position, while such of its marble covering that has survived, has been transferred to museums.