Kathmandu’s Durbar Square is the site of the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex, which was the royal Nepalese residence until the 19th century and where important ceremonies, such as the coronation of the Nepalese monarch, took place. Durbar Square refers to the places near Nepal’s royal palaces of the past. Temples, idols, statues, open courts and fountains along with other structures form part of Durbar Square. In the past Durbar Squares had been witness to events of importance including coronation of kings of the land. Now united as one country, Nepal was once a land that consisted many small kingdoms. Durbar Squares are fine examples of the life and style of the ancient kingdom. The famous three Durbar Squares in Nepal are Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. UNESCO has declared these squares as World Heritage Sites. Located in front of Kathmandu’s royal palace, this spectacular Durbar Square reflects the artistry that prevailed in the past. Kathmandu Durbar Square houses palaces and ancient temples that belong to the periods between 12th and 18th centuries. The cultural spirit of Nepal centers in Kathmandu Valley and hence Kathmandu Durbar Square gains more prominence. It consists of two divisions, which are referred to as outer complex and inner complex. The outer complex has famous temples namely Taleju Temple, Jagannath Temple, Shiv-Parvati Temple, Big Bell and KumariBahal. The inner complex has old palace, courtyards, Basantapur Durbar, Hanuman Dhoka and other structures. The palace in the complex was the residence of the Nepalese Royal family until 19th century and coronation of kings took place here. The temples representing Hindu and Buddhist faiths are constructed in pagoda style. The stunning architecture involved in the construction of temples and palaces in Kathmandu Durbar Square makes the place one of the most frequented tourist destinations
