Structural engineers and historians have published a new study on the 11th-century Modhera Sun Temple in Gujarat, revealing that its foundation uses a sophisticated interlocking stone system designed to absorb seismic shocks. The temple’s base was built on a deep layer of sand and layered stones that act as a natural base isolator.
This architectural foresight explains why the temple has survived several major earthquakes over the centuries. The study suggests that medieval Indian architects possessed advanced knowledge of geotechnical engineering that mirrors modern earthquake-resistant technologies.