Somapura Mahavihara or the Great Monastery is one of the most renowned Buddhist viharas in South Asia and one of the most important archeological sites in Bangladesh. The complex which covers more than 20 acres (85,000 sq m) consists of 177 distinct cells, stupas, temples and a number of other ancillary buildings. The quadrangular structure is encircled by large walls with various decorations bearing testament to the three major historical religions that inhabited the monastery: the Jains, Hindus and Buddhists.