Taxila Museum

"Home to one of the most stunning collections of stone and stucco sculptures from Buddhist Art of Gandhara UNESCO World Heritage Taxila was built by the Gandhara civilization, an ancient kingdom that thrived in what is now Pakistan and Afghanistan. From the fifth century ace. until the second century ce. this site was a center of Buddhist learning, a renowned place in which to learn about art, philosophy, religion, and culture Located between two important rivers, the indus and the Hydasces, and on several important trading routes, Taxila comprises a number of distinct archeological sites and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1980 Taxila bears the traces of Persian, Greek and Central Asian inhabitants. In the fourth century act. Alexander the Great arrived here and — according to legend — joined forces with King Ambi against neighboring King Porus. In retum for Alexander's help, Ambi provided him with troops and elephants. Alexander defeated Pors in a dramatic victory, although the men later became friends and allies. A century after Alexander's presence, the famous Buddhist king Asoka conquered the region_ Asoka, an Indian ruler, had been notorious for his cruelty until his conversion to Buddhism when, according to legend, his behavior changed dramatically and he became a great and virtuous ruler. Despite this turbulence: Taxila retained its reputation as a place of great learning, and scholars traveled from as far away as the Mediterranean and China to study here. The archeological remains include Buddhist stupas, a monastery, and breathtaking Gandhara sculptures. Taxila's origins are perhaps best glimpsed in its great surviving statues. Among them is a large and commanding Buddha who greets visitors with a firm stare a departure from the more usual depictions in which he has his eyes closed and a look of serenity on his face. This ancient Buddha has his eyes wide open and appears to be directly challenging the viewer."