Exploring 3 Bangladesh's World Heritage Sites

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Bangladesh has three remarkable landmarks recognized by UNESCO for their exceptional cultural and natural significance. These are the Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, the Bagerhat Mosque City, and the Sundarbans.

The Sundarbans, which are home to the biggest mangrove forest in the world, are a Natural Heritage Site, whereas the first two are recognized as Cultural Heritage Sites.

Read on to explore the uniqueness of the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh.

1. Paharpur Buddhist Monastery in Naogaon

The Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, formerly known as Somapura Mahavihara, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. Discovered by Scottish botanist Buchanan Hamilton between 1807 and 1812, the site was initially misidentified as a Hindu temple by archaeologist Alexander Cunningham in 1879.

Extensive excavations undertaken during Pakistan's era and post-independence Bangladesh revealed the remains of an enormous Buddhist monastery measuring 274.15 meters by 273.70 meters.

2. Bagerhat Mosque City

Situated in Bangladesh, north of the Sundarbans, Bagerhat is known as the "Mosque City" because of its remarkable assortment of medieval Islamic building styles. The city, once known as Khalifatabad, has a rich history reflected in its numerous mosques, public buildings, and tombs.

The Sixty-Domed Mosque, one of Bangladesh's biggest mosques and a 15th-century structure, is the city's most iconic landmark. This colossal structure, adorned with intricate terracotta detailing, is considered the finest example of Islamic architecture in the Indian subcontinent. Anyone interested in Bangladeshi history and culture should definitely visit the city of mosques.

3. Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, Bangladesh's sole World Heritage site, is a vast mangrove forest encompassing approximately 5,759 square kilometers. This enormous ecosystem, which was formerly all of India, is mainly owned by Bangladesh, however, some are still in India.

Within the Sundarbans, roughly 32,400 hectares are set aside as wildlife sanctuaries.With more than 200 islands and 400 tidal canals connecting them, this complex system protects Bangladesh's coastal areas from storms and climate change.

BANGLADESH POST | UNESCO

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