Ancient Multan: A Journey Through the Millennia-Old History of Pakistan's Oldest City

Introduction: The Timeless Allure of Ancient Multan

Nestled along the banks of the Chenab River in Punjab, Pakistan, Multan stands as one of South Asia’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Known as the “City of Saints” (Madinat-ul-Auliya) for its Sufi shrines and spiritual heritage, Ancient Multan has been a crossroads of civilizations, faiths, and empires for over 5,000 years. From its origins in Hindu mythology to its pivotal role in Islamic history, this article unravels the layers of Multan’s past, exploring its archaeological wonders, cultural legacy, and enduring influence.

Shrine of Shah Rukn-e-Alam – 14th-century Sufi tomb in Multan, Pakistan, with Mughal tilework and devotees..

1. The Dawn of Ancient Multan: Origins and Early Settlements

Multan’s history is shrouded in myth and antiquity. According to Hindu scriptures, the city was originally named Kashyapapura, after the sage Kashyapa, and later referred to as Mulasthana—the “Place of the Sun Temple.”

The Legend of the Multan Sun Temple

The Multan Sun Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Surya, was once among the subcontinent’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who visited in the 7th century CE, described it as a magnificent structure adorned with gold and precious stones. The temple’s idol, Aditya, was believed to date back to the era of the Mahabharata, attracting devotees from as far as Central Asia.

Alexander the Great and the Siege of Multan (326 BCE)

Multan’s strategic location made it a prize for conquerors. In 326 BCE, Alexander the Great laid siege to the city (then called Malloi), sustaining a near-fatal injury from an arrow. Greek historians documented its formidable defenses and the bravery of its inhabitants, marking Multan’s first recorded mention in classical texts.

2. Medieval Multan: Gateway for Islamic Civilization

The 8th century CE heralded a transformative era for Multan with the arrival of Islam.

The Umayyad Conquest (712 CE)

In 712 CE, Muhammad bin Qasim, the teenage Arab general, captured Multan during the Umayyad Caliphate’s expansion into Sindh. The city became a vital outpost for Islamic scholarship and trade, linking the Indus Valley to Baghdad and beyond.

The Rise of Sufism and the City of Saints

Multan’s identity as a spiritual hub crystallized during the medieval period. Sufi mystics like Shah Yusuf Gardezi (11th century) and Baha-ud-Din Zakariya (13th century) established khanqahs (Sufi lodges), attracting disciples across regions. The iconic Shrine of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture, symbolizes this era’s fusion of faith and artistry.

Sufi mystics like Shah Yusuf Gardezi and Baha-ud-Din Zakariya

3. The Golden Age: Multan Under the Mughals

The Mughal Empire (1526–1857) elevated Multan to new heights of prosperity and architectural grandeur.

Emperor Akbar’s Urban Vision

Emperor Akbar incorporated Multan into his empire in 1557, commissioning forts, mosques, and gardens. The Multan Fort (Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh), though largely destroyed today, once housed imperial courts, armories, and the legendary Sawi Mosque with its iconic tilted minaret.

Multan’s Blue Pottery and Craftsmanship

The Mughal era saw Multan emerge as a center for blue pottery, textiles, and metalwork. Artisans employed Persian-inspired motifs, creating tiles that still adorn shrines like Shah Rukn-e-Alam.

4. Decline and Resilience: Sikh Rule and British Colonialism

The 19th century brought upheaval as Multan passed from the Durrani Empire to the Sikhs and finally the British.

The Sikh Invasion (1818)

Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s forces captured Multan after a brutal siege, damaging landmarks like the Sun Temple and the Multan Fort. However, Sikh rulers also contributed to the city’s infrastructure, building gardens and markets.

British Era and the Railway Revolution

Under British rule (1849–1947), Multan became a key agricultural and military center. The introduction of railways connected it to Karachi and Lahore, revitalizing its economy but marginalizing traditional crafts.

5. Cultural Heritage: Sufi Shrines, Bazaars, and Festivals

Multan’s soul lies in its living traditions.

Architectural Marvels: Shrines and Mosques

• Shrine of Shah Rukn-e-Alam: A UNESCO-listed tomb with intricate tilework.
• Tomb of Bahauddin Zakariya: A symbol of Multan’s Sufi identity.

Vibrant Bazaars and Craftsmanship

The Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) bazaar district buzzes with shops selling Multani khussas (embroidered shoes), camel-skin lamps, and handwoven textiles.

16th-century Multan Fort and bazaar – Mughal architecture, blue pottery, and Akbar-era vibrancy.

6. Archaeological Discoveries: Unearthing Ancient Multan

Recent excavations have revealed Harappan-era pottery, Greco-Buddhist coins, and Hindu temple remnants. Organizations like the Pakistan Heritage Foundation advocate for preserving sites like the Vanikeenar Talaab, an ancient water reservoir.

7. Modern Multan: Bridging the Past and Present

Today, Multan blends its ancient legacy with modernity. The Multan Sultanate (a nod to its history) in the Pakistan Super League and projects like the Multan Metro Bus highlight its evolving identity.

Conclusion: Ancient Multan’s Enduring Legacy

From its mythical origins to its status as a cultural beacon, Ancient Multan remains a testament to resilience and reinvention. For history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and curious travelers, the city offers a journey through time—one where every shrine, brick, and bazaar whispers tales of empires and enlightenment.

Call to Action:

Plan your visit to Multan during the annual Sufi Music Festival or explore its heritage trails to experience living history firsthand.