Mohra Moradu

Main Stupa at Mohra Moradu, Taxila

The Mohra Moradu complex, located near the village of the same name in the Taxila valley, represents a significant archaeological site comprising both religious and residential structures from the early centuries of the Common Era. Notable for its preservation and structural arrangement, the complex includes stupas and a monastery that reflect the architectural and cultural practices of a historical Buddhist settlement.
The site is laid out with the stupa section located on the eastern side of the complex and the monastery situated on the western side. There are two stupas within the complex: one larger, serving as the main stupa, and one smaller. The main stupa is constructed on a square platform base, and its surface up to the drum was once extensively adorned with stucco sculptures. These sculptural decorations depicted groups of figures representing Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, indicating the site's religious significance and artistic elaboration.

The monastery lies to the west of the stupas and is designed as a quadrangular structure enclosed by cells on all four sides. The central courtyard contains 27 monastic cells, which were used by monks for residence and practice. The middle of this courtyard features a square depression, interpreted as a space for communal gatherings or assembly. According to Ihsan H. Nadeem, the presence of stone slabs surrounding this depression suggests that a veranda supported by wooden columns might have existed, providing shade to the ground-floor cells.
The monastery included two storeys, with access to the upper floor facilitated by a staircase discovered in one of the cells. The upper storey was measured to be 3.5 meters high. Within the courtyard, large statues of the Buddha were set on pedestals, and niches were decorated with stucco figures, reflecting the artistic sensibilities of the time. The cells themselves were simple in form, coated internally with plaster, and intended for austere living. A bathroom facility was identified in the southeastern corner of the monastery, indicating the presence of basic amenities.
On the eastern side of the monastic courtyard is a group of ancillary buildings. These include a hall of assembly, a dining hall, a kitchen, a store room, and a latrine, which together supported the daily needs and communal life of the monastic inhabitants.

Smaller Stupa at Mohra Moradu, Taxila

A notable discovery within the monastery was a smaller stupa found in one of the eastern cells. This stupa, in a remarkable state of preservation, had its chatras or umbrellas lying nearby in perfect condition. The stupa's core was constructed from limestone, locally referred to as kanjure, and its mouldings and external decorations were fashioned in stucco. Traces of pigmentation—crimson, blue, and yellow—were observed, suggesting that the stupa was once vividly painted. Restoration efforts have since secured this structure, with a metal gate installed at its entrance to protect it from theft or damage. The site attendant opens it for visitors upon request.
The architectural composition and structural layout of the Mohra Moradu complex reveal a thoughtfully designed religious establishment, reflecting both spiritual purpose and functional design. Its preservation allows for continued study and public appreciation of an important chapter in the Buddhist heritage of the region