Wednesday, March 20, 2019
Golghar Patna:
Golghar is a historical granary located in Patna, the capital city of the Indian state of Bihar. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and has historical significance.
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| Golghar Patna |
Here are some key points about Golghar:
1. Construction:
Golghar was built by Captain John Garstin, an engineer in the British East India Company, in 1786. It was constructed to address the problem of famine in the region.
2. Purpose:
The primary purpose of Golghar was to store grains in times of abundance so that they could be used during times of famine. The construction was initiated after the severe famine of 1770, which resulted in the loss of a significant population.
3. Architectural Features:
Golghar is a massive granary with a unique architectural design. It is a beehive-shaped structure with a height of 29 meters and a circumference of 103 meters.
The walls of Golghar are about 3.6 meters thick at the base and taper as they go up, providing stability to the structure.
4. Capacity:
Golghar has the capacity to store up to 140,000 tons of grains. The granary was designed in a way that prevented the stored grains from getting spoilt during storage.
5. Staircase and Entrance:
Golghar has a spiral staircase of 145 steps that leads to the top of the structure, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Ganges River. The entrance was designed to be narrow at the base to deter theft.
6. Famine Memorial:
Golghar stands as a memorial to the devastating famines that occurred in the region during the British colonial period. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the local population.
7. Golghar Complex:
The Golghar complex also includes a series of underground granaries and a museum that provides information about the history of Golghar and the famines that led to its construction.
8. Tourist Attraction:
Golghar is a popular tourist attraction in Patna, drawing visitors who are interested in its historical and architectural significance.
9. Accessibility:
The site is easily accessible, located near the Ganges River and not far from other prominent landmarks in Patna.
Golghar, with its unique design and historical importance, remains an iconic structure in Patna and contributes to the city's cultural and architectural heritage. It stands as a testament to the challenges faced by the people of the region and the efforts made to address them during a critical period in history.