Drapham Dzong:Archaeological Excavation of a Himalayan Fortress In Central Bhutan

Book Details

• Publisher: Niyogi Books

• Author: Werner Meyer

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9788193393574

• Pages: 192

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 13.2 x 8.6 x 0.8 inches

About the Book
The Archaeology of Drapham Dzong: Bhutan's Historical Fortress by Werner Meyer is a pioneering work that presents the results of the first-ever archaeological excavation project undertaken in Bhutan. The focus of this groundbreaking study is Drapham Dzong, a fortress located in the Choekhor Valley (Bumthang). The book serves as the final report on the project, which ran from 2008 to 2010, and offers an invaluable contribution to the study of Bhutanese history.

The excavation results shed light on the beginning of the fortress’s construction in the mid-16th century, with the compound being completed in several stages. Renovations and extensions were carried out in the late 17th century, while the fortress was abandoned in the early 18th century, likely due to violent destruction, looting, and arson. The book not only details the history of the fortress but also reveals numerous fascinating finds, including ceramic remains, traces of the fortress inhabitants' diet, evidence of trade relations, and remnants of everyday life.

Meyer’s work goes beyond basic historical analysis, offering a comprehensive understanding of Drapham Dzong’s architectural and cultural significance. The team’s comparison of excavated wall segments with similar building components from other preserved Dzongs enabled the creation of a graphic reconstruction of the main fortress, providing readers with a vivid image of its original structure.