The Great Stupa at Sanchi, located in Madhya Pradesh, India, stands as one of the oldest and most significant stone structures in the country. Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka the Great of the Maurya Dynasty in the 3rd century BCE, the monument was designed to preserve the sacred relics of the Buddha. Initially built as a modest brick dome, it was later expanded and encased in stone by successive ruling dynasties. The architectural design functions as a three-dimensional cosmic mandala. At its peak sits a square railing called a harmika, which supports a triple-tiered stone umbrella known as a chattras, symbolizing the three jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.

The structural layout aligns with cosmic concepts, featuring four monumental stone gateways, or toranas, precisely oriented toward the cardinal directions. Sculpted by local ivory craftsmen from the nearby city of Vidisha, these gateways feature remarkably detailed sandstone carvings. Interestingly, in alignment with the early Buddhist tradition of aniconism, the carvings completely omit human representations of the Buddha. Instead, his presence is conveyed through symbolic icons, such as an empty throne beneath the Bodhi tree, carved footprints with auspicious wheels, and a riderless horse under a royal umbrella. Following centuries of abandonment and being overtaken by the jungle, the site was rediscovered in 1818 by British cavalry officer General Henry Taylor, leading to subsequent archaeological restorations. Today, the Great Stupa is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is prominently featured on India's 200-rupee currency note.

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