India's Chand Boeri

One little known contribution to architecture made by India are calledstepwells. These architectural wonders are built deep into theground. With fluctuating rain in the desert communities of Rajasthanand Gujarat, these were built as far back as 600 A.D. to conserve thewater for the community. The construction of these stepwells areunique to other wells and tanks in that you have direct access to thewater, without having to send a bucket or other vessel down to retrievethe water.

They also served as community meeting places, at the base, where thewater is - they provided cool relief from the desert sun. Some of themare also built with alcoves in between the series of steps, where people could take a break from the work and the heat - relax & chat. To stand this test of time asthis community meeting place, theywere built to stand the test of time, both functionally andaesthetically. Beautifully carved and constructed, they are a wondroussight to behold.

They are built with series of steps several stories high, surroundingthe well. There are several of these surviving ancient stepwells inGujarat and Rajasthan. One of the largest, Chand Baori, is 13 storieshigh, has 3500 steps and is 100 feet deep. It truly is a marveloussight to wonder. The amazing architecture of the Rajput era is a sightto behold. This is located in thesmall village of Abhineri, one of the stops included on Global Tastes& Travels 2011 Culinary Tour to India. Whether or not you are ableto come on our tour next year, this is one stop that must be includedon any tour to India.

Contact me for details on the tour - culinarytours@globaltastesinc.com

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