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Bhaktapur Durbar Square 
Founded in the 12th century by King Ananda Malla, Bhaktapur has a unique cultural and historical significance. During the Malla Kingdom (1201 to 1769 CE) it was the capital of Nepal and is one of the three major cities in the Kathmandu Valley, alongside Kathmandu and Patan. The square served as the royal palace of the Malla kings, who ruled Bhaktapur from the 14th to the 18th centuries, and is filled with temples, courtyards, statues, and intricate wood carvings. The city is known for its vibrant festivals, traditional pottery, and exquisite craftsmanship. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The site is one of the most stunning showcases of Newari art, architecture, and history in the Kathmandu Valley and contains well-preserved courtyards, palaces and temples, including the Taumadhi Square where the Nyatapolia Temple with its five-tiered pagoda-style, the tallest temple in Nepal, is located. Standing 33 meters (108 feet) high, its name, "Nyatapola," means "five-storeyed" in the Newari language. Each of its five tiers is adorned with meticulously carved wooden struts and beams. The temple was commissioned by King Bhupatindra Malla and constructed in 1701 and 1702. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi, a powerful Tantric deity. At the base of the temple are pairs of stone figures, including wrestlers, elephants, lions, griffins, and tantric goddesses that serve as guardians, with each tier representing a different level of strength. Even having endured several earthquakes, the Nyatapola Temple remains remarkably well-preserved.  The 55-Window Palace, also known as Pachpanna Jhyale Durbar, is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the square and is named after its intricately carved 55 wooden windows, which are a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the Malla period. The palace was originally constructed by King Yaksha Malla in the 15th century and later remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century where it served as the royal residence for the Malla kings of Bhaktapur during the 17th and 18th centuries. Following fall of the Malla dynasty in the late 18th century, and their replacement by the Shah dynasty, the royal residence moved to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu. This three-story, U-shaped structure features interconnected courtyards and is adorned with detailed wood carvings, including depictions of deities and royal life. The palace also houses the Golden Gate, a magnificent entrance that leads to the inner courtyards. Although the interior has been closed to the public for many years, the exterior remains a popular attraction for its historical and artistic significance.  The Vatsala Durga Temple, also known as Vatsala Devi Temple, is dedicated to the goddess Vatsala, a manifestation of the goddess Durga. The temple was originally constructed in the late 17th century by King Jagat Prakash Malla and completed by his son, King Jitamitra Malla. It is built in the North Indian shikhara-style, which is quite distinct compared to other structures in the square. The temple is made of sandstone, giving it an appearance similar to limestone. One of the notable features of the Vatsala Durga Temple is the Taleju Bell, placed in front of the temple by King Jaya Ranjit Malla in 1737. This bell was used to mark morning and evening prayers at the Taleju Temple. There is also a smaller bell, the bell of barking dogs which is known as the "barking bell," which was placed by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1721. The temple has faced significant challenges over the years, including being partially destroyed in the 1934 earthquake and again in the devastating earthquake of April 2015. However, it has been painstakingly restored to its original condition, with reconstruction work completed in early 2020. The Vatsala Durga Temple is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bhaktapur and remains a popular attraction for visitors to the area.  The Fasidega Temple, also known as Silu Mahadev or Gosaikunda Mahadev, holds historical and cultural significance. Originally built in the Shikhar style in the 18th century, it was once described as one of Nepal's tallest and most spectacular temples. Unfortunately, the temple has faced destruction multiple times due to earthquakes, including the devastating ones in 1934 and 2015. Currently, only its six-level plinth with guardian statues of elephants, lions, and cattle remains, although is undergoing renovations and continues to be a site of religious importance. The Fasidega Temple's history reflects Nepal's cultural and architectural richness. As part of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the temple was central to religious festivals, gatherings, and ceremonies, particularly during celebrations like Biska Jatra. This festival marks the Nepali New Year and includes elaborate processions and rituals, where the temple becomes a spiritual focal point for devotees.  Note: On 25th April 2015, the site was hit by an earthquake with a magnitude 7.8, resulting in a severe impact on many of buildings. Some being completely destroyed and other sustaining major damage. Efforts have subsequently been made to restore the effected buildings. |
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All Photographs were taken by and are copyright of Ron Gatepain
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