Conquest of the Right Bank of Bactria–Tokharistan by Sasanian Iran and the Buddhist Centers of Termez
Abstract
Abstract This article is dedicated to describing the Buddhist monuments of Termez (earlier Tarmidh). On the basis of new archaeological discoveries and the study of the Buddhist monasteries of Termez, coupled with artifact analysis, the time of construction of the early monasteries of Termez has been clarified. According to the authors, Termez (not Kushan fortress Kampÿrtepa) is believed to be the earliest urban center where Buddhism penetrated the Oxus region and established itself. Contrary to the existing opinions, the Sasanian troops destroyed the Buddhist cult centers of Termez during their campaigns in Kushan Bactria. This fact was revealed by the authors during the study of Fayaztepa and specifically in the inner-city temple on Chingiz 2 hill. In particular, the Buddhist temple on Chingiz 2 was destroyed, and its magnificent stone sculpture and architectural decoration were crushed and placed on the floor of the corridor associated with the building. This was the first stage in the destruction of Buddhist religious buildings by the Sasanians, which took place during the period of Shapur I ’s reign (240–272). The second destruction of the Buddhist buildings of Termez occurred during the reign of Shapur II (307–380). Indirect confirmation of this are the traces of a fire in complex B of the “Western Hill” of Karatepa, crushed sculpture, and Middle Persian graffiti inscriptions on the walls.