Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur
Evidence of the rise of Mahayana Buddhism in Bengal from
the 7th century onwards, Somapura Mahavira, or the Great Monastery, was a
renowned intellectual centre until the 12th century. Its layout
perfectly adapted to its religious function, this monastery-city
represents a unique artistic achievement. With its simple, harmonious
lines and its profusion of carved decoration, it influenced Buddhist
architecture as far away as Cambodia.