Thatta



At one time Thatta was important as Sindh's capital city and as a center of Islamic arts. From the 14th century, four Muslim dynasties ruled Sindh from Thatta but in 1739 the capital was moved elsewhere and Thatta declined.

Some people connect it with Pattala or Alexander, but the authorities don't agree. Alexander had rested his weary troops in Pattala. In preparation for the near fatal march across the Makran desert in Balochistan. The resemblance probably arose as Pattala was built of timber and so are the old houses of Thatta plastered by mud. Today these stand at awry angles. The known history of the town. goes back to 600 years. For centuries old Thatta was the capital of Sindh. A new city is being built opposite the Makli Hills Hashimabad.

Shahjhan Mosque

Not to be missed is Shah Jahan's Mosque, a glorious example of the Muslim Moghul architecture. Built by the Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan in 1647 AD. It is a massive brick building. It has 93 domes covering the entire structure. Performing the acoustical purpose of carrying the voice of the Imam (prayer leader) to all parts of the mosque

The mosque contains the most elaborate display of blue and white tile work in the sub-continent. This mosque has been carefully restored to its original condition. Recently renovated' the mosque gives the visitors a good idea of its early magnificence

Situated on the outskirts of the new town. It is surrounded by narrow lanes and multi-story houses made of plaster and wood, which are topped by Badgirs. The windcatcher designed to funnel cool breezes down into the interiors of buildings. They are also quite common in Hyderabad

The bazaars of Thatta are known for hand-printed fabrics. Glass, bangles and the Sindhi embroidery work inlaid with tiny mirrors. One of the better known handicrafts of Pakistan.

Kaliankot

Located 3 Mlles south of Thatta. There are ruins of an old fort built in the 15th century during the rule of the Sammahs. The circumference of the fort is about a mile and a half. It is situated on a limestone hill honeycombed with natural caves. The limestone contains a large number of mummileties. It is supposed to occupy the site of a still more ancient stronghold, which was in existence prior to the advent of the Arabs.

Jherruk

On the banks of the Indus River, 56 km from Thatta, this is another lake. Near the Jhimpir Railway Station the Shrine of Amirpir is worth a side trip. Three miles below Jherruk there is a low hill covered with the ruins of a fort said to have been erected by Raja Manjhira.

Getting Away

There are bitumenised roads all the way to Hyderabad in the north and Tharparkar Desert in the east. From the desert you can take a look up to Mirpur Khas and then back to Hyderabad.



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