| SIRSUKH |
| The Sirsukh (Taxila) has been inscribed in 1980 upon the World Heritage List of the conventions concerning the protection of the World cultural and natural Heritage. Inscription on the List confirms the exceptional universal value of a cultural site, which deserves protection for the benefit of all humanity. The Great Kushanas after succeeding the Parthians at Taxila laid the foundation of the third city site in A.D. 80 in the middle of the lush green valley just about 1.5 Kilometer North East of Sirkap with Lundi Nala flowing in the south and Haro River on north-east. The remains of the third city of Taxila are known as �Sirsukh� after the name of another character of the folk legend of �Raja Rasalu and seven demons� According to the legend, Sirsukh was the second brother of Sirkap who lived and ruled over this city. Unfortunately, the excavations at Sirsukh site conducted during the years 1915-16 remained limited only to a portion of its fortifications on the eastern side. The city wall is 18 feet thick and externally provided with a heavy rolled plinth to strengthen its foundations. Contrary to Sirkap, defense wall is supported by semi circular bastions, with opening from inside. Five feet above the floor level both bastions and the wall is provided with loopholes. The walled city measured 4500 feet east to west and 3300 feet north to south. Contemporary remains of Buddhist establishments built under the royal patronage of Kushana rules in Taxila have been brought to light at Dharmarajika, Giri, Kalwan, Kunala, Mohra Moradu, Jaulian, Piplan, Lal Chak, Bhallar, Bhamala and Manikyala along with stone and stucco sculptures of Mahayana Buddhist sect which flourished under the royal patronage of Kushanas. The closing years of the 5th century witnessed a ruthless invasion of Gandhara and Taxila by white Huns that brought an end to the Kushanas glorious rule and left Taxila in shambles. Most of the trade and trade routes were disrupted, economic prosperity diminished to the lowest ebb. The city and the entire Buddhist religions and educational establishments were deserted, abandoned, and left to decay gradually under the sun. Ancient remains at Sirsukh for their historic and architectural importance have been declared �Protected Antiquity� under the Antiquities Act-1975. And who so ever will destroy, break, damage, alter, injure, deface or mutilate or scribble, write or engage any inscription or sign on any antiquity shall be punishable under Section-19 of the said Act with rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine of Rupees 200,000/- or with both. |