Prabhas Patan’s Archaeological Evidence and Solanki-Era Architecture Stand as a Valuable Heritage
Somnath’s Stones Echo Valor, Inscriptions Reflect Sanatan Culture
Prabhas Patan continues to preserve a rich and sacred legacy, with archaeological remains, copper plates, inscriptions, and memorial stones reflecting its prosperity, cultural heritage, and enduring spirit of valor. Epigraphic records and authenticated remains connected to the history of Prabhas Patan and the Somnath Temple are found across the region, offering valuable insights into its ancient and medieval past.
Several inscriptions, copper plates, and remnants of temples destroyed during invasions are carefully preserved at the Prabhas Patan Museum, which currently operates from the ancient Sun Temple at Prabhas Patan. These artefacts stand as symbols of devotion, resilience, and cultural continuity.
One notable inscription is located near the museum, beside the old Ram Temple in Bhadrakali Lane. It is preserved at the residence of Sompura Brahmin Dipakbhai Dave, where it remains embedded in the wall of the ancient Bhadrakali Temple within his courtyard.
According to Shri Tejal Parmar, Curator and Museum Head of the Prabhas Patan Museum, this inscription dates back to 1169 CE (Valabhi Samvat 850 and Vikram Samvat 1255) and is currently protected by the State Department of Archaeology. The eulogistic inscription honors Param Pashupata Acharya Shriman Bhavabrihaspati, the spiritual preceptor of Maharajadhiraj Kumarapala of Anhilwad Patan. It records significant details of the Somnath Temple’s ancient and medieval history.
The inscription narrates that Somnath Mahadev was constructed in all four yugas—built of gold by Chandra (Soma) in the Satya Yuga, of silver by Ravana in the Treta Yuga, of wood by Shri Krishna in the Dvapara Yuga, and finally as a magnificent stone temple by King Bhimdev Solanki in the Kali Yuga. Historical records confirm that Bhimdev Solanki built the fourth temple on earlier remains, followed by the fifth temple constructed by Kumarapala in 1169 CE at the same site.
Under the Solanki dynasty, Prabhas Patan flourished as a major center of religion, architecture, and literature. The just rule of Siddharaj Jaysinh and the devotion of Kumarapala elevated Somnath into a proud symbol of Gujarat’s Golden Age.
Beyond ruins and inscriptions, the sacred land of Prabhas Patan embodies the spiritual pride of Sanatan Dharma. Its art, architecture, and literary heritage continue to inspire future generations, while the legacy of Somnath stands as a timeless reminder that devotion, self-respect, and cultural identity endure across ages.
