Patan

Patan is located in north Gujarat, on the banks of the Saraswati River (now largely seasonal). Its position in the semi-arid plains of western India made it an important inland centre linking the regions of Saurashtra, Rajasthan, and the lower Indus basin. Access to river water, trade routes, and fertile tracts supported early settlement and sustained urban growth over centuries.

Unlike coastal ports of Gujarat, Patan developed as a royal capital and religious city, closely tied to political authority and temple institutions.

Ancient Origins and Early Settlement

Patan’s early history is associated with the ancient city of Anhilwara (Anhilwad Patan), founded in the 8th century CE by Vanraj Chavda, ruler of the Chavda dynasty. Anhilwara quickly emerged as a major political centre in western India, benefiting from trade routes connecting Gujarat with northern India and the Deccan.

The city became a hub of administration, commerce, and religious activity, laying the foundation for its later prominence under the Solankis.

Solanki (Chaulukya) Period and Imperial Capital

Patan reached its greatest prominence under the Solanki (Chaulukya) dynasty between the 10th and 13th centuries. The Solankis made Anhilwara Patan their capital, transforming it into one of the most important cities of medieval western India.

Solanki rulers patronised temple architecture, Sanskrit learning, astronomy, and urban development. Patan became known for grand temples, water structures, and planned urban spaces. The dynasty encouraged trade, supported artisans, and maintained diplomatic and commercial links with other Indian regions.

The construction of monumental stepwells marked this period, most notably Rani ki Vav, commissioned in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhimdev I. These structures reflected advanced engineering, water management, and sculptural traditions.

Religious and Cultural Importance

During the Solanki era, Patan emerged as a major religious centre for Hinduism and Jainism. Temples, mathas, and learning institutions attracted scholars and pilgrims.

The city was also known for its artisanship, including stone carving and textile production. Patan’s double ikat weaving tradition (Patola) began developing in this broader cultural environment, supported by royal patronage and trade demand.

Decline and Political Transition

From the late 13th century, Patan’s political fortunes declined following invasions and the weakening of Solanki authority. The city came under the control of the Delhi Sultanate, marking a major shift in governance.

While Patan lost its status as an imperial capital, it continued as a regional town and religious centre. Some temples were damaged or repurposed, while others remained active, sustaining cultural continuity.

Sultanate and Mughal Period

Under Sultanate and later Mughal rule, Patan functioned as a provincial town within larger imperial structures. The city’s economy relied on agriculture, trade, and artisanal production rather than royal administration.

The Patola silk tradition survived through this period, with weavers supplying luxury textiles to courts and merchants. Despite reduced political importance, Patan remained culturally active.

British Period and Administrative Change

In the 19th century, Patan came under British influence as part of the Bombay Presidency. The British reorganised revenue systems, introduced modern courts, and integrated Patan into colonial administrative networks.

The city did not industrialise on a large scale, but it continued as a market town serving surrounding rural areas. Archaeological surveys during the colonial period brought renewed attention to Patan’s medieval heritage.

Post-Independence Developments

After independence in 1947, Patan became part of Bombay State, and later Gujarat following the formation of the state in 1960. Administrative functions expanded at the district level, and education, healthcare, and transport infrastructure improved.

Patan retained its reputation for Patola silk weaving, which gained recognition as a unique and highly skilled craft tradition.

Patan in the Modern Era

In the modern era, Patan functions as a district-level administrative and cultural centre in north Gujarat. Its economy is supported by government services, education, agriculture-based trade, and heritage-related tourism.

Recognition of Rani ki Vav as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2014) brought global attention to Patan’s historical significance, reinforcing conservation efforts and cultural awareness.

Patan’s identity today reflects layered continuity: an early medieval royal capital, a Solanki-era cultural and architectural centre, a provincial town under later empires, and a post-independence district city. Rather than modern industrial expansion, its importance lies in preserving water architecture, textile heritage, and historical urban traditions that continue to define its place in Gujarat’s historical landscape.