Archaeologists embark on survey of Buddha`s birthplace
Baku, January 12 (AZERTAC). An international team of archaeologists has begun a three-year survey of the archeological vestiges in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Nepal, a world-renowned Buddhist pilgrimage destination, and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. The team of archaeologists, including experts from Nepal`s Department of Archaeology and the Lumbini Development Trust, is directed by Robin Coningham, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Archaeology at Durham University, UK.
The archaeologists will work to identify the presence, or absence, of archaeological deposits, invisible below the surface, so that appropriate placing of pilgrim facilities can be made without damaging valuable archaeological resources. The project is funded by the Government of Japan through the Japanese-Fundsin-Trust for the Preservation of the World`s Cultural Heritage, and co-ordinated by the UNESCO Office in Kathmandu. The initial one year survey period is funded with a budget of USD$95,000 (including specialist scientific analysis and equipment).
Institutions participating in the completion of this project are: UNESCO; Lumbini Development Trust; Department of Archaeology, Government of Nepal; Durham University; University of Stirling; Tribhuvan University. UNESCO Representative to Nepal and Head of UNESCO Kathmandu Office, Axel Plathe, said: “UNESCO welcomes the implementation of this innovative and interdisciplinary project which mobilises national and international experts towards the strengthening and conservation of the World Heritage Property of Lumbini for the benefit of humanity.” Institutions participating in the completion of this project are: UNESCO; Lumbini Development Trust; Department of Archaeology, Government of Nepal; Durham University; University of Stirling; Tribhuvan University.
Basanta Bidari, Chief Archaeologist of the Lumbini Development Trust, engaged in the investigation said: “This project is a wonderful opportunity to build and develop the national capacity of professionals in unfolding the unknown details relating to the birth of the Buddha by employing scientific advances in archaeology.”
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