Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust

Background

The Ayuguthi Sattal, an 18th century two-story pilgrims’ resthouse (Newari: sattah) defining the northern perimeter of Patan Darbar Square, has been the focus of Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust’s efforts in collaboration with His Majesty’s Government’s Department of Archaeology since 1991.

This pilgrim’s resthouse stands near the Trust’s headquarters in Patan Darbar Square in near ruins. It was under negligent private ownership till the Nepal Supreme Court took a ground-breaking decision to nationalize it in 1996, a decision upheld by the Nepalese Supreme Court in 1998. The successful outcome of this legal battle, the first time the government has taken a building by eminent domain based on its cultural and historic value, is a landmark victory for architectural preservation. Sadly however, much of the historic building was lost to monsoon rains and the inability to carry out protective measures during the prolonged legal battle.

The reconstruction is the first international conservation project to rely totally on the historic building methods, materials, and crafts of Nepal. No modern materials will be introduced and the rebuilding will be a showcase of historic techniques, providing local craftsmen with the opportunity to refine and reproduce historic building skills, a key project component.

The case of the Ayuguthi Sattal, an important precedent for the region, sends a message to the public that the Government of Nepal will act to protect architectural heritage.