The Library Building
The ruins of the Library Building at Vikramshila provide a profound insight into the intellectual heart of this ancient university. Located to the southwest of the Main Stupa, this structure was a crucial part of the Mahavihara's academic life. It is believed to have been a repository of thousands o f priceless manuscripts, scriptures, and texts on various subjects, including Buddhism, philosophy, logic, grammar, and metaphysics. The Library Building was designed with meticulous care to protect the valuable manuscripts from moisture, a testament to the advanced architectural and engineering knowledge of the time. The structure had a unique design, including a large water reservoir to the rear, which was likely used to condition the back wall, keeping the manuscripts cool and dry. The destruction of this library, along with the rest of the university, was a significant loss to the intellectual heritage of India and the world. Exploring the remains of this building evokes a sense of both awe and sadness, as one contemplates the vast knowledge that was lost. It highlights the university's paramount importance as a center of learning and a hub for the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. The library was a place where scholars and students would have spent countless hours, seeking knowledge and engaging in intellectual discussions, making it a focal point of the university's academic life.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
45 minutesPlace Type:
Historical Landmark, Archaeological SiteSpecial Events:
As part of the archaeological site, there are no specific events held at the Library Building. However, it is an essential part of the educational and historical tours of the university ruins. ...As part of the archaeological site, there are no specific events held at the Library Building. However, it is an essential part of the educational and historical tours of the university ruins.Best Photo Spots:
The unique layout of the Library Building, with the reservoir in the background, offers excellent opportunities for architectural photography. The juxtaposition of the ancient ruins against the natural landscape makes for compelling images. You can also capture the intricate brickwork and the remn...The unique layout of the Library Building, with the reservoir in the background, offers excellent opportunities for architectural photography. The juxtaposition of the ancient ruins against the natural landscape makes for compelling images. You can also capture the intricate brickwork and the remnants of the walls, highlighting the building's historical details.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Visitors can observe the unique layout of the building and the remains of the water reservoir, contemplating the advanced preservation techniques of the time. You can also imagine the vast collection of manuscripts that once filled these halls, and reflect on the intellectual loss that occurred when the university was destroyed. The serene and secluded location of the library also makes it a good spot for quiet reflection. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Library Building is famous as the repository of knowledge of the ancient Vikramshila University. Its unique and practical architectural design, including the water reservoir for climate control, makes it a fascinating example of ancient engineering. It represents the pinnacle of intellectual l...The Library Building is famous as the repository of knowledge of the ancient Vikramshila University. Its unique and practical architectural design, including the water reservoir for climate control, makes it a fascinating example of ancient engineering. It represents the pinnacle of intellectual life at the university before its tragic destruction. -
Architecture:
The Library Building is a large, rectangular structure made of burnt bricks. It is a well-planned building with thick walls, designed for the preservation of manuscripts. A notable architectural feature is a large reservoir, or tank, located just behind the building, which was an ingenious method ...The Library Building is a large, rectangular structure made of burnt bricks. It is a well-planned building with thick walls, designed for the preservation of manuscripts. A notable architectural feature is a large reservoir, or tank, located just behind the building, which was an ingenious method of climate control to protect the precious manuscripts from humidity. The area of the structure is significant, indicating that it was a large complex capable of holding an extensive collection of texts. The ruins showcase the advanced understanding of preservation techniques in ancient times. While no longer intact, the layout of the building and the presence of the reservoir reveal a sophisticated architectural design aimed at a specific function. -
How To Reach:
The Library Building is located within the Vikramshila archaeological site. It is easily accessible by a short walk from the Main Stupa. Visitors can reach the site by hiring a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Bhagalpur or Kahalgaon. ...
Tourism Tips
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Since the library is an exposed ruin, be prepared for sun exposure. A hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle are highly recommended. It is a good idea to walk carefully as the ground can be uneven. Engaging with a local guide will provide a much richer understanding of the historical significance ...
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(521+) of Bihar Has Been Added :-
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Kesariya StupaKumhrar ParkRohtasgarh FortRuins of VikramshilaValmiki Tiger ReserveBio-Diversity ParkFanishwar Nath Renu JungleForbesganj Mela GroundJogbaniJokihat MosqueMaata Aasawar MandirRampur Over BridgeRaniganj Vriksh VatikaShiva MandirSultan PhokherBaba Bateshwarnath TempleBaithakji Hajipur Baraila Lake More PlacesNote:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
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