Buzz
Kathmandu serves as the capital of Nepal, the oldest city and a hub of ancient civilization rich in culture and unique architecture. This capital boasts 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Insights into Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as Hanuman Dhoka, this landmark is a top attraction in the Kathmandu Valley. The name Hanuman-dhoka Durbar originates from a statue of Hanuman erected by King Pratap Malla at the entrance of the royal palace in 1672 AD. The multi-story palace was built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah in 1770 and is known as Basantapur Durbar. The entire complex is collectively referred to as Kathmandu Durbar Square. Situated in the heart of the city, it is surrounded by numerous Buddhist and Hindu temples.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is home to numerous temples, palaces, and courtyards. It has been honored as the “museum of temples” with over 50 temples. Additionally, it serves as the largest concentration of ancient buildings. Visitors here can explore exquisite architectural marvels and intricately carved stone and wood sculptures.
Photo: ceciliacallemar
History of Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square was constructed from the 12th to the 18th century by the Malla kings. Even today, it remains an important architectural landmark of the city. However, after the earthquake in 1934, the square was heavily damaged. It was subsequently redesigned and reconstructed. By 1979, this architectural complex was recognized as a World Heritage Site.
The square was built from the 12th to the 15th century.
Conservation efforts at Kathmandu Durbar Square began in 2000, focusing on completing the restoration of three temples located outside the entrance of the Kathmandu Royal Palace. All three temples suffered severe damage to their roofs and were in a very degraded state. At that time, WMF provided technical assistance and collaborated with the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust to develop and implement a structural reinforcement system to withstand major earthquakes. The roofs were rebuilt, combined with various modern earthquake reinforcement measures to repair and preserve sculptures and architecture. The restoration of the Indrapur temple was completed in 2002, followed by the Narayan temple in 2003, and the Jagannath temple in 2004.
This architectural complex was heavily devastated by earthquakes.
After undergoing extensive restoration, it was truly unfortunate that in 2015, Nepal once again endured a devastating earthquake, resulting in thousands of casualties and damaged homes. The country was heavily impacted by the earthquake, with several buildings in Kathmandu Durbar Square being affected. Subsequently, the government implemented various measures to repair and rehabilitate the structures.
Although some major structures in Kathmandu Durbar Square were destroyed in the 2015 earthquake, several have now been restored or rebuilt, while others are still undergoing reconstruction. Some buildings and temples remain intact, relatively unaffected by the disaster.
Currently, many structures are still undergoing renovation.
Architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square
The residents of Nepal hold great reverence for religious rituals and worship ceremonies, honoring various deities. Upon visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, one can easily observe the abundance of temples and shrines, outnumbering residential dwellings. Furthermore, within households, images of divine beings adorn every corner, from balconies to walls and entrances.
Maju Dewal Siva Temple
Key attractions of Kathmandu Durbar Square
Taleju Temple
The Taleju Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Taleju Bhawani. Constructed in 1564 by King Mahendra Malla of the Malla dynasty, the temple opens its doors to visitors only once a year on the 9th day of Dashain – a major festival in Nepal.
Taleju Temple
The Golden Gate
The entranceway to Kathmandu Durbar Square in Nepal is crafted from gold, commonly referred to as the Golden Gate.
The Golden Gate
Kumari Ghar
Kumari, one of the living goddesses in the world, is the incarnation of Taleju Bhawani. Visitors can pay a visit to the goddess at Kumari Ghar. This structure was erected by King Jaya Prakash Malla in 1757.
Kumari Ghar
The Trailokya Mohan Temple
The Trailokya Mohan Temple, dedicated to the deity Narayan, stands as one of the tallest temples along Layaku Marg in Kathmandu. Adorning its roof and walls are intricate carvings depicting various Vaishnavite imagery. The five-tiered structure houses a majestic statue of Garuda kneeling in front of the temple.
The Trailokya Mohan Temple
Kasthamandap
Kasthamandap, a renowned name when it comes to Kathmandu Durbar Square. It stands as a three-tiered wooden public shelter built for relaxation. Kasthamandap was constructed around the 16th century by King Laxmi Narsingha Malla.
The Kasthamandap Temple
The Great Bell and Two Large Drums
Approaching the Taleju Temple, you'll encounter a grand bell alongside two large drums. Each day, the bell tolls 108 times in the morning and evening. Alongside the bell, visitors can hear the resounding beats of the drums. This act is believed to sever the souls of demons.
The Large Bell near Taleju Temple
The Image of Kal Bhairav
Near Kathmandu Durbar Square, you'll find images or statues of Kal Bhairav, a deity revered during Jatras festivals. The statue of Kal Bhairav is crafted from a single stone slab.
The Image of the Deity Kal Bhairav
The Shrine of Shiva Parvati
Built by Bahadur Shah, the Shrine of Shiva Parvati features statues of the deities Parvati and Shiva standing, overlooking from the windows.
Shiva Parvati Temple
The Gaddi Baithak Palace
Gaddi Baithak Palace is designed in a neo-classical style. It was constructed by Chandra Shumsher Jang Bahadur Rana in 1908. Upon reaching Kathmandu Durbar Square, this palace will catch your eye.
Gaddi Baithak Palace
With thousands of years of history and numerous renovations, Kathmandu Durbar Square still retains its impressive ancient charm. It's not only a sacred religious site for the capital's residents but also a valuable cultural heritage for humanity as a whole.
Hà My (compiled) - luhanhvietnam.com.vn
Image: Internet
Posted by: Trần Diễm Quỳnh
Keywords: Exploring the unique architectural complex at Kathmandu Durbar Square, Nepal
