Pakistan: Taxila – Taxila Museum

Taxila’s history dates back to at least the 6th century BC and continued as a prominent city until its decline in the 5th century AD. Its peak was during the Kushan Empire (1-3rd centuries AD). Taxila was strategically located at the crossroads of three major trade routes—the Royal Highway (from eastern India), a route from western Asia, and one from Kashmir and Central Asia – it was thus a major hub for commerce, and Buddhist culture and learning. Taxila Museum preserves vast amounts of Buddhist artifacts – statues, stupas, and so on – absolutely stunning in quality and amount! And what’s even more shockingly impressive – there are only about 5000 artifacts on display while 45000 are in storage!