Bamiyan Buddha Statues

The Bamiyan Buddha statues were two massive stone sculptures carved into cliffs in Afghanistan, dating back to the 6th century. They represented seated Buddhas and were important cultural and religious symbols along the Silk Road. Known for their impressive size—up to 180 feet tall—they showcased advanced ancient craftsmanship. In 2001, the statues were destroyed by the Taliban, sparking international concern over cultural heritage. Today, they remain symbols of Afghanistan's rich history and a reminder of the need to protect world cultural monuments.