Bangladesh boasts a long and proud history that dates back millennia. Here are some of the best historical spots you should visit while in Bangladesh.
Lalbagh Fort is an incomplete Mughal palace fort from the 17th century near Buriganga river in Dhaka. Comprised of three structures such as Diwan-i-Aam, mosque and Bibi Pari’s tomb.
1. Lalbagh Fort
Lalbagh Fort is one of Bangladesh’s premier historical landmarks. Constructed by Prince Muhammad Azam during his vice-royalty but abandoned after Prince Aurangzeb called back his vice-royalalty due to Bibi Pari’s death here; Shaista Khan could not complete it due to this perceived negative energy associated with it and so left it incomplete.
Original fort consisted of three buildings (mosque, tomb of Bibi Pari and Divan-i-Aam), with two gates and parts of its walls forming its boundaries; but recent excavations by Bangladesh Archaeology Department have unearthed additional structures within this complex.
European artists frequently sketched or painted this fort’s massive southern bastion during their visits to Dhaka during the late 17th century; but after Buriganga River changed course, this once imposing fortress fell into disrepair.
2. Tara Masjid
Tara Masjid (Star Mosque), located in old Dhaka, is an eye-catching landmark adorned with exquisite mosaic stars. Constructed during the first half of the 19th century and serving as an important religious site for Dhaka’s Muslims since then.
This mosque stands out from others in the city due to the numerous blue star motifs that cover its walls, distinguishing it from others. Religious businessman Ali Jan Bepari funded its renovation and added an eastern veranda which allows worshippers to stand during crowded prayers.
Visitors who seek an understanding of Bangladeshi history and culture should visit this mosque. It stands as a testimony to their tenacity.
3. Dhakeshwari Temple
Dhakeshwari Temple stands as Bangladesh’s National Temple and has stood the test of time, through invasions, religious conflicts and Bangladesh’s independence struggle. Built during the 12th century by one of Sena Dynasty rulers it has served as an anchor in Bangladeshi life over centuries past and present.
Hindu religious believe that Dhakeswari is an embodiment of Goddess Durga and serves as the deity for Dhaka. Additionally, she is one of Shakti Peethas where one of Goddess Sati’s gems fell.
Dhaka’s ancient Buddhist Temple plays host to several major cultural events each year, attracting top performers in music and film industries across Bangladesh. A visit here should be on every itinerary in Bangladesh!
4. Armenian Church
Armenian Church (Armenian:) is one of the world’s oldest continuously existing Christian churches. Christianity first arrived in Armenia at the latter half of the 1st century AD but due to ongoing political upheavals Christians operated secretively until St Gregory the Illuminator established Christianity as the official religion with help from King Thiridates III in 301 AD by founding Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral (in Greek:).
Adopting Christianity helped unify Armenians from across racial divisions into one people. Christianity also fostered an Armenian culture and literature known as the Golden Age in their history, when church relations expanded, leading to notable theologians such as Saint Nerses the Gracious ( ) and Gregory of Narek being produced.
5. National Martyrs’ Memorial
National Martyrs’ Memorial (Bengali: Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho) stands as a lasting testament to those who sacrificed their lives during Bangladesh Liberation War which led to independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan. Located near Savar, approximately 35 km northwest of Dhaka.
The design of the monument is inspired by number symbolism, drawing from archetypal structures such as Athenian Parthenon. Each of its seven isosceles triangular pyramid-shaped walls represents a landmark movement on Bangladesh’s journey toward independence: for instance 1952 Language Movement (5+2=7); day of Independence in 1971 (1+6=7) and 7 Birsreshto (war heroes).
The monument has become one of Bangladesh’s premier sightseeing spots. Visitors often come to pay their respects to those who died defending its independence, remembering them with special fondness.
