Durham University’s UNESCO Chair on Archaeological Ethics and Practice in Cultural Heritage, in cooperation with the Department of Archaeology and the Lumbini Development Trust have begun archaeological field activities as part of the Japanese sponsored UNESCO project for the strengthening of the management of Lumbini.

The archaeological team is continuing excavations within the ancient walled city of Tilaurakot-Kapilavastu, at the recently identified large monumental complex at the centre of the city. This palatial 100 x 100 metres area was defined by a 1.50 metres wide wall, with individual bricks measuring 0.47 x 0.30 x 0.05 metres. The team is now defining it’s southern gateway, as well as structures found near its north-west corner. These structures will be subsequently conserved and presented to visitors and pilgrims.

The team is also undertaking excavations outside the city’s fortification at a number of locations to the east, north and west, to demonstrate the significance of its hinterland.

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