International Seminar on Vernacular Settlements

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Micro-region: Patan

 Patan is an ancient fortified town, situated on the banks of the sacred Saraswati River. Founded by Vanraj Chavda, in 746 AD, Patan enjoyed a privileged status in Gujarat. During 1304 to 1411, Patan was the Gujarat State Headquarter of Delhi Sultanate and than Capital City of Gujarat Sultanate after the collapse of the Delhi Sultanate at the end of the 14th century. The glory of Patan reached its zenith during the Solanki period the golden age of Gujarat. During these years, the city was an important place of learning and a prosperous trading center. The rulers were great patrons of fine arts and architecture and undertook construction of many civic and religious edifices in the city. The monumental reminder of the golden period of Gujarat under the Solanki kings can be seen at the Rani-ki-Vav, a step-well some distance from the town centre. Built in the 1050s and named for Rani Udamati, wife of Maharajah Bhim Deva, founder of Solanki rule in Gujarat, the step-well is the oldest and perhaps the grandest among the 120 plus step wells in Gujarat. Rani-ki-Vav is an excellent example of subterranean architecture of Gujarat. The exquisitely carved side walls, pillars, beams, series of steps and platforms lead to the elaborately carved water well. Every surface is adorned with finely chiseled sculptures of maidens and Hindu deities, religious motifs and geometrical patterns. It represents the finest of the Indian sculptures and architecture. The urban structure of the town is made of several neighbourhoods called 'Pols'. 'Pols' are densely populated and are like a maze with winding narrow lanes. Some of them contain old beautiful houses with carved wooden facades in traditional Gujarati architectural style. In addition, Patan is the only center of unique weaving craft of 'Patola' since the time of King Kumarpal (ruled 1143-73 AD). The patola saree is one of the finest hand-woven sarees produced today. This is a specialty of Patan, and is famous for extremely delicate patterns woven with great precision and clarity.