Dhamek stupa

In Sarnath, Dhamek Stupa is the most noticeable structure near Varanasi. In India, it is one of the most prominent Buddhist structures. In 500 AD, The Dhamek Stupa was built to replace an earlier structure commissioned by the great Maurya king Ashoka in 249 BC. Dhamek Stupa represents Deer Park. Originally built in 249 BC during the reign of King Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty, this massive and prominent structure has undergone several expansions and additions over time. In its present position stands at a height of 43.6 meters with a diameter of 28 meters this solid cylindrical stupa is made of red brick and stone. Stupas originated as pre-Buddhist tumuli, where ascetics were buried in a seated position, called chaityas. After the Buddha’s parinirvana, his remains were cremated and the ashes were divided and buried under eight mounds with two further mounds encasing the urn and the embers. Since the original ten monuments have not been identified, Little is known about these early stupas. However, some later stupas, such as those at Sarnath and Sanchi, appear to be embellishments of earlier mounds. Stupas originated as circular mounds surrounded by large stones. To enshrine small pieces of calcined bone and other relics of the Buddha and his disciples, King Ashoka built stupas.