Golghar: A Timeless Wonder of Patna**

 **Golghar: A Timeless Wonder of Patna**


Patna, the capital of Bihar, is a city with a rich history, its monuments bearing witness to its glorious past. Among these architectural wonders stands the **Golghar**, a legendary granary that has defied time and continues to be one of the most popular landmarks in the city.


### **A Glimpse into History**

Golghar was constructed in **1786** by **Captain John Garstin**, a British architect, under Warren Hastings' regime. The major function of this building was to act as a granary in order to avert famines, which were a concern throughout the colonial period. The terrible **1770 famine** that occurred in Bengal led to the British endeavor to build humongous storage structures for food, and Golghar was one such attempt.


### **Architectural Brilliance**

The Golghar's design is an excellent instance of genius. It is a **stupa-shaped** building, composed entirely of bricks, with no pillars used. The building stands **29 meters (95 feet) tall** with walls **3.6 meters (12 feet) thick**. The beehive-shaped dome, which is distinct, helps the grain to be stored compactly without dampness or rotting.


The granary features a spiral staircase with **145 steps** that wind around the exterior, leading to the top. This design was meant to facilitate easy loading and unloading of grains. From the summit, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the **Ganga River**.


### **A Monument That Stands Tall**

Even though Golghar was constructed for grain storage, it was never used to its full capacity because of a design flaw—the doors open inwards, which would render it impossible to drain the granary fully if it were ever filled to capacity. Yet, over time, it has transcended being a granary. Now, it is a historical and tourist site, attracting visitors who marvel at its grandeur and history.


### Golghar Today: A Symbol of Heritage

Now, Golghar is a symbol of the rich heritage of Patna. The government of Bihar has also taken measures to conserve and promote the monument and make it more visitor-friendly. Light and sound shows, beautification, and improved facilities have been initiated to enhance the experience for tourists as well as history buffs.


Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to discover the cultural origins of India, **Golghar is a must-see**. Not only does it showcase the architectural excellence of the British era, but it also reminds us of the value of preparedness and resilience in the face of disasters.


### **Conclusion**

Golghar is more than an ancient granary—it is a legacy of Bihar's rich history and architectural creativity. It stands over two centuries high and still stuns tourists with its grandness and wide horizons. When in Patna, be sure to go visit Golghar and experience a piece of the past that is still connected with history but opening its arms towards the future. 


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