Ujjain is a city state of Madhya Pradesh, Also known as Ujain or Ujjayni. Its history goes back as far back as the seventh century BC, when it was capital of the kingdom of Avanti. At that time, was known as Ozen.
Already in the second century C., was part of the Persian empire of Alexander the Great, succeeding him after a stormy passage across domains that at the time were pushing to expand their territories. For a long time, until recent years, was a much coveted city, and only in 1750 returned to local hands, particularly the Hindus.
For them, the god Shiva was the one who gave it its present name to commemorate his triumph over the demon god of Tripuri. Of exciting history and mythology of this sacred city, is infinite vestiges: Monuments and temples, mostly. Here are some of them.
The Temple Mahakeleshwara is probably the most important of them all. It was dedicated to Shiva and the interior has many icons representing Ganesh, Parvati, Kartikeya and Nandi in addition to the Shiva himself, of course.
The Bade Temple Ganeshji ka MandirAs its name implies, is famous for the sculpture of Ganesh who is inside. Located near the tank that is next to the temple of Mahakeleshwara.
Another symbol of the place is Chintamani Ganesh Temple. In addition to its great antiquity and its place among the most popular pilgrimage centers, is considered the icon of Ganesh that lies within it formed a miraculous way, without anyone sculpt.
Pir Matsyendranath is another must-see site: it was built in memory of the leader who gives the name, belonging to the Natha sect. It is an ancient site with amazing views, situated on the banks of the river Shipra. Hindu and Muslim pilgrimage to this site, dating from the seventh century BC.