Dhola Veera is an archeological site situated in the
Kutch District of
Gujarat. It is situated on a remote stretch, surrounded by
the formidable
Rann of Kutch, and is about 250 km from
Bhuj, the district headquarters. It was once an important part of the
Harappan Civilization, proving that the Harappan culture extended to Gujarat. This fortified city was ruled by fiercely protective men from 2900 BC to 1500 BC.
The Harappan settlement found here is one of the major five significant sites unearthed so far. According to the archaeologists, the Harappans who lived here were a prosperous lot and their merchants trading in copper, semi-precious stones, spices and artifacts with favorable markets, including Mesopotamia.
Dhola Veera stretches over 50 hectares of semiarid land. The site, built on top of a mound, is a heavily fortified citadel; followed by a middle town and a lower town. The citadel is the most amazing construction built with elaborate gates, one of which bears a unique 10-letter inscription in Harappan script. It is said to be the living quarters of the ruling family.
Dhola Veera is now preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India for further excavations.
