Urban architecture in present-day Pakistan started to develop around the 3rd century millennium, with the beginning of the Indus civilization. Accordingly, Pakistani architecture is intertwined with Indian architecture on the subcontinent today. During the medieval period, Indo-Islamic architecture also emerged as a blend of Indian and Persian architecture. Particularly in the 16 and 17th centuries, Mughal architecture became prevalent. Moreover, with the British colonial activities, European styles like Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles also became prevalent. After Pakistan’s independence, the International architecture style has become popular. Here are some of the most amazing world heritage sites in Pakistan.
Buddhist Ruins of Takht-i-Bahi
The Buddhist monastic complex of Takht-i-Bahi (meaning Throne of Origins) was established on a high hill in the Gandhara region of Pakistan early in the first century AD. Due to its location, it could escape invasions and has come today in a largely preserved state. This stone-built monastery was in continuous use until the 7th century AD. There are also the remains of a neighboring city at Sahr-i-Bahlol, located 5 km away. The stones in the Gandhara pattern (diaper style) reflect the decorative art of the first two or three centuries in the area.
Historical Monuments at Makli, Thatta
Thatta was the capital of three successive dynasties and later was under the rule of the Mughal Empire. I constantly developed between the 14th and the 18th century. Comprising half a million tombs, the necropolis of Makli is among the largest cemeteries in the world. It also provides a view of this old civilization in the province of Sindh. That is, the tombstones and the monumental structures on the site reflect different architectural inspirations including Hindu architecture of the Gujrat style and Mughal imperial architecture. Distant Persian and Asian examples of architectural terra-cotta also influenced Makli architecture.
Rohtas Fort in Punjab
Built after the defeat of the Mughal Empire in 1541, Rohtas Fort, aka Qila Rohtas, is an exceptional example of early Muslim military architecture in Central and South Asia. It is actually a blend of Turkish and Indian military architectural styles. Through time a village grew inside the fort which has come today intact, and the village still exists today.
