Mahabodhi Temple

Bodhgaya, 7th - 19th century

The Mahabodhi Temple at Bodhgaya, the site of Buddha's enlightenment, was extensively rebuilt during the 19th century; most of its visible structure dates from that time. Alternately neglected and restored over the centuries, it is thought to retain fairly accurately the 7th century shape of the original temple. Today (2005), renovations continue, as shown in the photo, and the site remains a major pilgrimage venue, as in the past, for Buddhists from all over Asia and beyond. The temple's entrance faces east.