Less than 10 km from the town of Pondicherry is the famous and important archaeological site named Arikamedu. Arikamedu is the most extensive Indo-Roman trading station on the Coro-mandel Coast. The Romans called it Podouke. It is situated close to the spot where the river Ariyankuppam joins the Bay of Bengal.
Arikamedu possesses an interesting past. Decades ago, a French scholar living in the area chanced to see a gem bearing a bust of Augustus, among the playthings of a group of local children. He immediately recognized the archaeological potential of the place and arranged for an excavation of the site. The digs revealed several Roman objects including the Roman amphora jars. Subsequently, many British, Indian and American archaeologists have excavated the site. The discoveries include a dyeing vat indicating that the site was a textile-manufacturing centre. The brick ruins of an ancient harbour are also seen here.
The Government Museum at Pondicherry displays most of the artifacts unearthed at Arikamedu. Besides, the museum also has objects pertaining to the French rule (18th to 20th centuries A.D.) in the area. These include French furniture and sculptures.
The museum also has a fine collection of Chola bronzes (10th-11th centuries A.D.), specially icons of Nataraja or the dancing Siva.
(Last Updated on : 06-05-2014)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recently Updated Articles in States of India
|
|
|
• | History of Chhattisgarh History of Chhattisgarh dates back to the era of epics and traces through the reign of powerful dynasties in India like Marathas. The area developed a rich cultural heritage during British era.
| | • | Arvalem Caves Arvalem Caves are among one of the ancient monuments of Goa and a place of tourist interest. These ancient caves are believed to have been built sometime in the 6th-7th century.
| | • | Elk Waterfalls Elk Waterfalls is one of the unique spots of Tamil Nadu. Known for scenic beauty, the waterfall is frequented by a number of tourists.
| | • | Killiyur Waterfalls Killiyur Waterfalls is one of the most attractive waterfalls in Tamil Nadu. The waterfall collects the surplus water of the lake and remains most attractive during and after the monsoon.
| | • | History of Dadra and Nagar Haveli History of Dadra and Nagar Haveli states the political scenario of this Union Territory of India, which is based between Maharashtra and Gujarat, ever since it witnessed the reign of the Marathas till it was declared a part of India on 2nd August, 1954.
| | |
|
|
|
|