Question

Who constructed the first Mahabodhi Temple, and in which century?

• A. King Harsha, 6th century CE
• B. King Vikramaditya, 1st century BCE
• C. King Chandragupta, 4th century BCE
• D. Emperor Ashoka, 3rd century BCE

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Emperor Ashoka, 3rd century BCE

- It is one of the four sacred sites connected to the life of Lord Buddha, marking the location of his Enlightenment (Bodhi). - It is situated in Bodh Gaya, central Bihar, along the banks of the Niranjana River, it stands as one of the few remaining examples of early brick structures in India. - The first temple was constructed by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, and the present temple dates back to the 5th or 6th centuries. - It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely of brick, still intact from the late Gupta period, and is considered to have played a significant role in shaping brick architecture over the centuries. - The sculpted stone balustrades are an exceptional early example of stone relief sculpture. - It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.