Conservation Of `Ban Faqiran' Heritage Site To Enhance Beauty, Attraction Of Capital

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Jul, 2018 ) :Department of Archaeology and Museums (DoAM) has got formal approval for initiating the conservation work of Buddhist site `Ban Faqiran' located at the top of Margallah Hills, from the Executive Committee of Archaeology and Literary Heritage Endowment Fund.

The excavation work of this historical site was completed by the department two years back and now the conservation work will be aimed at protecting the rich cultural heritage of the Federal capital as well as enhancing its beauty and attraction for local and foreign visitors", said an official of DoAM while talking to APP.

The approval for preservation of `Ban Faqiran " site along with other seven projects was given by Executive Committee of Archeology and Literary Heritage Endowment Fund in a meeting held here.

The excavation of the fourth heritage site of `Ban Faqiran', which is around 2000 years old, in capital was the first ever field activity undertaken by the department after the 18th constitutional amendment 2010.

The antiquities dug out from excavated site were preserved for conducting research, imparting education, promoting tourism and providing recreation to the visitors, the officials added.

The objectives behind this project were to reconstruct the ancient cultural profile, establish antiquities and explore, excavate and preserve potential archeological sites in the federal capital.

Besides this, it will reflect soft image of the country when foreign visiting dignitaries or delegates are shown around the heritage sites and the museum, housing the antiquity.

The funds for excavation of this Buddhist site were provided by the National Fund for Cultural Heritage (NFCH) in April 2015 and its excavation commenced in August 2015.

The excavating team under the field directorship of Archaeology Expert, Abdul Ghafoor Lone and site supervisor, Arshad Khan exposed a large stupa- like square structure, measuring 10.26 meter a side, on the top of Margalla Hills, the official briefed.

This structure is made of lime and kanjur stone, with semi ashlar and diaper masonry dated from the second to the fourth century Common Era (CE).

Besides other antiquities, six coins and four iron arrowheads were discovered from the Buddhist site.

The heritage site also includes a water tank and mosque of early period.