About Jahaj Kothi Archaeological Museum
Jahaj Kothi Archaeological Museum is housed in the historic Jahaj Kothi building in Hisar, Haryana, near the Firoz Shah Palace Complex. Built in the late 18th century by Irish adventurer George Thomas, the ship-shaped structure later served as James Skinner's residence. Now maintained as an archaeological museum, it displays artifacts from regional excavations including Agroha and other Harappan and historic sites, offering insight into Haryana's archaeological heritage.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a historic ship-shaped colonial-era building housing an archaeological museum. Inside, galleries display sculptures, coins, pottery, inscriptions and artifacts excavated from Agroha, Banawali and other sites in Haryana ranging from Harappan to medieval periods. The surroundings include the Jahaj Kothi compound near the Hisar Fort area with open grounds and views of the historic structure's distinctive architecture.
Key highlights
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Historic ship-shaped Jahaj Kothi building built by George Thomas
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Archaeological collection from Agroha and other Haryana excavation sites
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Sculptures, terracottas, coins and pottery from Harappan to medieval periods
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Location adjacent to Firoz Shah Palace Complex in central Hisar
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Example of late 18th-century colonial architecture in Haryana
History of Jahaj Kothi Archaeological Museum
Jahaj Kothi was built between 1796 and 1798 by Irish adventurer George Thomas who established Hisar as his capital. The building's ship-like appearance gave it the name Jahaj Kothi. It later served as the residence of Colonel James Skinner, founder of Skinner's Horse. The structure was subsequently used for various administrative purposes before being converted into an archaeological museum by the Haryana Archaeology and Museums Department to house regional antiquities.
Culture & Context
The museum preserves and displays the archaeological heritage of Haryana, particularly artifacts from Agroha, an important ancient town associated with Maharaja Agrasen, and other Harappan and early historic sites, reflecting the region's long cultural continuity.
Route
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