Harappa (Archaeological site)
Country: Pakistan
Region: Asia
Period: ~ 2600-1900BCE
Location: 30.628889°N, 72.863889°E
Description
Harappa was one of the major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization), which thrived around 3300–1300 BCE in what is now Pakistan and northwest India. Located near the Ravi River in present-day Punjab, Pakistan, Harappa was one of the first cities in the world to develop urban planning, advanced drainage systems, and standardized brick construction. The city was a bustling trade hub with a sophisticated culture, notable for its well-organized layout, featuring wide streets, public baths, and a grid-like street pattern.
Modern Remains
Today, Harappa is an important archaeological site that has provided extensive insights into the Indus Valley Civilization. Excavations at the site have revealed the city’s layout, including its advanced drainage systems, public structures, residential areas, and artifacts like pottery, seals, and tools. The ruins of Harappa, though partly eroded over time, continue to be a focal point for historians and archaeologists studying ancient urbanization and the mysterious Indus script. The site, along with others in the Indus Valley, offers a glimpse into a highly developed society that had a lasting influence on the history of South Asia.