DIGITAL DOCUMENTATION AND RECONSTRUCTION OF MOHRA MORADU: PRESERVING GANDHARAN ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

Abstract

Gandhara region has played a distinguished role in the spread of Buddhism to Central Asia and East Asia. Due to its strategic location, the small settlements around it grew into large metropolises with fine assembled monuments. These monuments are the finest examples of material and their applications. Their form assembling, craftsmanship and the structural soundness of these structures is proven by the ruins, still standing after several decades. This article presents a research study and analysis conducted on an urban settlement, Mohra Muradu, in the Gandhara region. The aim of this research work is the documentation and digital preservation of Pakistan’s rich architectural past. A comprehensive research methodology was devised to study the design and then carry out its critical analysis. Various geometric proportions were recorded and analyzed for digital reconstruction. This research will result in a fine digital recreation of monastery and Stupas of Mohra Moradu. A Digital model will provide an option for a virtual reality walk through allowing for easy accessibility and bringing Pakistan in limelight for its rich inheritance. This methodology can be applied to other historic sites as well and by doing so all such locations can be digitally preserved.