Gandhara (ancient region)

Gandhara was an ancient region located at the crossroads of South Asia and Central Asia, roughly covering parts of present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. It flourished from around the 1st century BCE to the 7th century CE as a cultural and artistic hub under various empires. Gandhara is renowned for its unique Greco-B Buddhist art, which combined Greek artistic techniques with Buddhist themes, reflecting the area's diverse influences. Historically, it was a center for trade, religion, and learning, playing a key role in the spread of Buddhism and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road.