Itakhola Mura, Buddhist archaeological site in Kotbari, Bangladesh
Itakhola Mura is a Buddhist monastery complex in Kotbari with a grand stupa spread across three terraces. The central shrine sits on a square foundation and displays carefully constructed structures that reflect the religious requirements of medieval Buddhism.
The site developed between the 7th and 12th centuries as a Buddhist monastery with multiple construction phases. Earlier layers remain buried beneath the current structures, revealing the long history of occupation and rebuilding at this location.
The monastery follows Buddhist architectural traditions from medieval South Asia, with nineteen meditation cells arranged around an open courtyard. This layout helps visitors understand how monks lived and moved through their daily routines in this sacred space.
The site is accessible via well-maintained roads from Cumilla Sadar Upazila to the Kotbari area. Visitors should bring sun protection and water since the location is open to the elements throughout the day.
Excavations uncovered three solid gold pellets of significant weight, offering rare evidence of wealth at the monastery. The team also discovered a copperplate inscription that remains undeciphered, leaving questions about the site's early inhabitants and their connections.
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