Explore Nepal’s Patan Palace in 3D
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage
Patan Palace from Above (2022) by CyArkCyArk
Introducing Patan Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Boasting intricately carved temples, courtyards, and statues, it stands as a testament to the Newari artistry and the religious diversity of the Kathmandu Valley.
Documenting Sundari Chowk in Patan Palace, Nepal (2022) by CyArkCyArk
Documenting Patan Palace in 3D
In 2022 as part of the U.S. Community Heritage Exchange Initiative, CyArk hosted 3D documentation and storytelling workshops with 10 community members. The trainees worked alongside CyArk both virtually and in the field to document the Sundari Chowk within Patan Palace.
Sundari Chowk Nepal by CyArkCyArk
Sundari Chowk
Welcome to Sundari Chowk, which translates to “beautiful courtyard.” This courtyard is located within Patan Palace and was constructed during the Malla Dynasty in the Kathmandu Valley.
Newari Architecture
The red brick walls of the courtyard are interspersed with wooden doorways, carved pillars and ornate panels all decorated with hindu deities and iconography. The courtyard was constructed by the pious King Siddhinarasimha Malla in the 17th century.
Sundari Chowk Fountain Nepal by CyArkCyArk
Tusa Hiti
At the center of the courtyard is Tusa Hiti, a sunken circular structure featuring a traditional water spout. The spout is topped with the dual representation of the Hindu deities Vishnu, also known as Narayana, and his consort, Lakshmi, atop a mythic bird-creature Garuda.
Sundari Chowk Nepal by CyArkCyArk
Restoration of the Courtyard
The Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT), undertakes much of the restoration in the Patan Durbar Square. KVPT had initiated restoration of Sundari Chowk in 2010 but efforts became even more important after the 2015 earthquake caused significant damage to the courtyard.
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