ASI Archaeologists found a 1,200-year-old Buddhist monastery at Ratnagiri Buddhist site in Jajpur district.
During excavations, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) discovered a Buddhist monastery complex, stone sculptures of Bhagwan Buddha, votive stupas, inscribed stones, pottery, beads, stone pillars, and an ancient brick wall.
A remarkable five-foot monolithic elephant sculpture has also been discovered at the site.
A colossal Buddha head and sculptural fragments of Buddhist deities have been also discovered at the site.
The excavation was started in December 2024 and was supervised by ASI Deputy Superintendent Prajnaprati Pradhan.
The main aim of the excavation is to uncover more artefacts that provide insights into the rich history and cultural influence of Buddhism in Odisha.
Ratnagiri’s decline started in the 13th century CE due to invasions by Muslim rulers.
Ratnagiri, known as the “Hill of Jewels,” was first documented in 1905 by Manmohan Chakravarty.
