District Museum- Vidisha — Attraction in Vidisha

Besnagar, modern-day Vidisha, was an important city in the Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE).

Mauryan Period (322-185 BCE)

Besnagar was a significant urban center and administrative hub. It was a key location on the trade route connecting Pataliputra (Patna) to Ujjain. Emperor Ashoka (268-232 BCE) visited Besnagar and established a Buddhist monastery. The Heliodorus Pillar, erected by Greek ambassador Heliodorus in 110 BCE, is located in Besnagar.

Heliodorus Pillar Inscription

The inscription on the pillar reads:

"This Garuda-standard was erected by Heliodorus, son of Dion, a resident of Taxila, who came as Greek ambassador from King Antialcidas to King Kasiputra Bhagabhadra, who was a devotee of Vasudeva."

Mauryan Architecture and Art

Besnagar's architecture shows a blend of Indian and Greek styles. The Udayagiri Caves, near Besnagar, feature Mauryan-era rock-cut architecture. The sculptures and carvings in Besnagar showcase Mauryan artistry.

Administration

Besnagar was part of the Mauryan Empire's Avanti province. The city was governed by a Mahamatra (governor) appointed by the emperor. The Mauryan administration promoted trade, commerce, and cultural exchange.

Decline and Legacy

After the Mauryan Empire's decline, Besnagar was absorbed into the Shunga Empire (185-73 BCE). The city continued to flourish during the Gupta Empire (320-550 CE). Besnagar's cultural and architectural legacy influenced subsequent...

Historical monuments is very beautiful and amazing architecture splendid.The district museum well maintained neat and clean peaceful environment.The museum situated H.N.204 Block colony Durga Nagar Vidisha M.P.Big collection of ancient statues and Beautiful sculptures from 1Century A.D. Vidisha imperial capital and later in the Gupta period under the name of Basenagar or Bhailsa.Must see with family and friends. This museum has many antic scriptures and monuments, and worthwhile to visit. I have given some of the reasons below why this museum has got valuable things. Vidisha is very old city, has its presence in Kalidas's books. Vidisha got its name after the wife of Great King Ashoka. In the era of ashok vidisha was very developed city and was renowned...

The District Museum – Vidisha is an archaeological museum located in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, India. Established in 1959, the museum houses a collection of sculptures, inscriptions, and other artifacts from the region. The museum's collection includes pieces from the 2nd century BCE to the 12th century CE, and includes works from the Gupta, Maurya, and Kushan periods. The museum also houses a collection of sculptures from the 10th to 12th centuries CE, including works from the Paramara and Kalachuri dynasties. The District Museum – Vidisha is an important cultural and historical institution in the region, and is a popular destination for tourists and scholars alike. The price of...