The earliest stepwells (known also as
baori) are speculated to have been built during the 1st millennium AD (some sources placing them in the 6th century AD, while others say they were first built between the 2nd and 4th centuries AD). The construction of stepwells developed over time and by the medieval period they became complex structures that showcased a mastery of engineering, architecture, and art.
Hence, the best-known stepwells today date to this period of Indian history. Stepwells continued to be built in India, and it has been estimated that by the 19th century there were several thousand stepwells in existence.
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The travertine (sedimentary stone) altar with a Latin inscription that revealed it to be a sacred shrine to Apollo was discovered near the monumental entrance of the sanctuary.
What followed was another discovery, an altar dedicated to the Roman goddess of fortune and luck, Fortuna Primigenia . The only other previously discovered sanctuary to the goddess was discovered in Palestrina, just south of Rome, which is a popular heritage site.
Another altar was discovered that was dedicated to the divine mother goddess of ancient Egypt, Isis.
Finally, a marble statue of Hygeia, deity of health and daughter of Asclepius, the healing god, was discovered at the site.
A BRIDPORT couple called Mr and Mrs White-Christmas who were thrust into the national spotlight when they married in a last minute pre-lockdown wedding managed to beat further restrictions when they enjoyed their honeymoon – free of charge. Kieran White and Tilly Christmas, both 20, tied the knot at the Roman Baths in Bath in November – an event which went viral with people thoroughly enjoying their new festive surname. Their original plans to get married in July were postponed due to the pandemic. Childhood sweethearts, full-time business student Tilly and supermarket assistant Kieran, married in a Covid-secure ceremony, performed beside the Great Bath with a reception for 15 guests on the picturesque Roman Baths’ Terrace.