Cities and states developed in South Asia between c. BC 800 and AD 250, as Hinduism and Buddhism arose and spread. Drawing on archaeological studies and also on texts and inscriptions, this book explores the character of the early Indian cities, paying particular attention to their art and architecture and analyzing the political ideas that shaped the state systems. The study extends to the opening centuries of the Christian era, offering an Indian perspective on the contacts with the Greek and Roman worlds that followed the invasion by Alexander the Great.

An account of the pre-Islamic hill top fortress of Shahr-i Zohak and its many turrets as recorded by Allchin and Professor Codrington in 1951, and these and other defensive sites in the Bamiyan Area visited by Baker in 1975 and 1988. Numerous photos, a few plans and sections; some pottery.