1400s Nagina Masjid aka Jewel Mosque and 3rd century BC Sanchi Stupa in India

Entrance to the Nagina Masjid, Champaner. Central portion of facade and minarets, much overgrown. Image taken from Archaeological Survey of India Collections: India Office Series (volume 7: Western India). Originally published in c. 1869. Illustrated by Archaeological Survey of India.

Source: Archaeological Survey Of India Collection by British Library

Nagina Masjid (meaning 'Jewel Mosque') is a mosque in Champaner, Gujarat state, western India. It was built during the time of Mahmud Begada, in the 15th century. It has minarets, globe-like domes, and narrow stairs. It is part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nagina Masjid, Champaner
- photo c. 1869, built 15th century -
archaeological-survey-of-india-collection.jpg


Nagina Masjid Today
champaner_Nagina_Masjid.jpg


- LOL -
1881 Technology

2000 years after it was built
Lala Deen Dayal, Sanchi stupa from the south-west during repairs, 1881 Albumen print

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Sanchi Stupa Today
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Official Info
  • When was it built? Commissioned in 3rd century BCE, Expansion/ additions/restoration works/ made in different periods
  • Who built it? Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty
  • Where is it located? Located 46 km north-east of Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, India
  • Architectural Style: Buddhist Art and Architecture
Sanchi - Wikipedia
Photographs: Archaeological Survey of India collections


KD: Just thought some things were suspiciously funny, I guess...
  • Who, and when really built these "stupas"?
  • What was the true purpose of these buildings?
 
Haha, yeah, that 1881 picture is classic.

I wonder what inspired them to add the square area and ornamentation up at the top of the stupa.
 
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