THATTA, Nov 28: US Consul General Michael Dodman visited archaeological sites in the historical city on Wednesday and showed keen interest in Makli necropolis, Shahjehan Mosque and picturesque mausoleums of Mirza Essa Khan Tarkhan, Mirza Jani Beg and Jam Nizamuddin.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Mr Dodman said that for years he had been curious about the historical sites in Thatta and the visit had left him mystified at the rich history and exotic culture of this region.

He said the world must know about the significance of these monuments and laid stress on giving worldwide exposure, particularly to Shahjehan Mosque and Makli Necropolis, the sites on the tentative UNESCO world heritage list since 1993. Appropriate steps were vital to inform the rest of the world about the eye-catching sites of this region, he said.

Earlier, Thatta Deputy Commissioner Nawaz Sohoo briefed the envoy about the history of the sites and said that four Muslim dynasties ruled Sindh from Thatta since the 14th century but in 1739 the capital was moved elsewhere and with it began decline of Thatta.

“The city has a very rich heritage of Muslim architecture built during the 16th and 17th century.

Although it has many monuments, some dating back to 2,000 years, it is best known for the Shahjehan Mosque, a masterpiece of Moghul architecture,” he said.

The mosque spread over an area of 51,850 square feet was built by Mir Abdullah on the orders of Moghul emperor Shahjehan in 1647 AD. “It is said that Shahjehan built the mosque as a gesture of gratitude to the people of Thatta for sheltering him during his youth after his father Emperor Jahangir banished him from Delhi,” he said.

About the tomb of Essa Khan Tarkhan, the official told the consul general that it was one of the largest and most prominent tombs in the country.

The tomb, a two-storey building with magnificent designs and carvings and a picturesque balcony, had a tragic story to tell.

After the construction of the tomb was completed Mirza Essa Khan ordered that the architect’s hands be cut off to make sure he could not replicate the design, he said.

Mr Dodman left for Karachi along with his delegation in the afternoon.