Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of the oldest Buddhist shrine, revealing that the religion dates to the 6th century BC.
The excavation, at a site in Nepal believed to be the birthplace of Buddha, revealed older wooden structures beneath the brickwork of a newer temple. The excavation also revealed evidence of tree roots, in line with beliefs that Buddha was born under a tree.
Robin Coningham, of Durham University, who was part of an international team, said: “For the first time we actually have scientific evidence leading to the establishment of one of the major Buddhist shrines.”
The findings, reported in