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Rani ni Vav

Near to Patan is the Rani ni Vav. A Vav is a step well, structures unique to Gujarat, partly used for water conservation, but also as a place for social and religious activities, particularly in the summer as they provide a cooling atmosphere. This well was constructed in the 11th century by Queen Udaymati as a memorial to her husband.  The step wells start at ground level, with the result that we almost walked straight past it until the men at the ticket office waved us in the right direction.

 

 

The well is at the rear of the structure and there are seven stories to the base level.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 This picture from the other end shows the steps going down to the well. Walking into the well you could feel the temperature noticeably drop.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Through out the well the walls and columns are all elaborately carved and decorated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also plenty of inspiration for us patchworkers!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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