Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves are 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating from the second century BCE to about 480 CE in Aurangabad district (a.k.a. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district) of Maharashtra state in India. Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Universally regarded as masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, the caves include paintings and rock-cut sculptures described as among the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art, particularly expressive paintings that present emotions through gesture, pose and form.
The caves were built in two phases, the first starting around the second century BCE and the second occurring from 400 to 650 CE, according to older accounts, or in a brief period of 460–480 CE according to later scholarship.
Location and Setting
The Ajanta Caves are nestled within the Satmala Hills, along the banks of the Waghora River in western India. The caves are situated in a horseshoe-shaped bend of the rock face, overlooking a narrow stream. This secluded location provided a tranquil environment for the Buddhist monks who inhabited the caves, allowing them to pursue their spiritual practices in peace.
Phases of Construction
The excavation of the Ajanta Caves occurred in two distinct phases, separated by an interval of about four centuries. The earlier phase, spanning from the second century BCE to the first century CE, saw the creation of caves 10, 9, and 12, which are characterized by their simple carvings and sculptures.
The later phase, lasting from the fourth to the sixth century CE, witnessed the construction of the remaining 26 caves. These caves are distinguished by their more elaborate carvings, sculptures, and particularly, their stunning murals. The paintings depict a wide range of subjects, including Buddhist legends, Jataka tales, and scenes from everyday life.
Gallery
