The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, existed around 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE in what is now Pakistan and northwest India.

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The civilization was characterized by well-planned urban centers with advanced features. Here are some chief characteristic features of the Harappan cities:

Urban Planning:

Harappan cities were meticulously planned with a grid layout, featuring well-defined streets and alleys arranged in a systematic pattern. The streets were often laid out in a north-south and east-west orientation.

Brick Construction:

Harappan cities were built using standardized, kiln-fired bricks. These bricks were of uniform size and shape, facilitating construction with a high degree of precision. The use of bricks contributed to the durability and stability of structures.

Drainage Systems:

One of the most remarkable features of Harappan cities was their advanced drainage systems. Cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa had well-planned and sophisticated sewer systems with covered drains running beneath the streets. The drainage systems reflect a high level of urban engineering.

Public Buildings:

Harappan cities featured public buildings, including large structures often interpreted as granaries or administrative centers. The Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro is a notable public structure, possibly used for ritualistic or communal bathing.

Residential Areas:

The cities had well-defined residential areas with houses built in a standardized manner. Houses often had multiple rooms, private wells, and courtyards. The absence of palatial structures suggests a relatively egalitarian distribution of wealth.

Citadel and Lower Town:

Many Harappan cities were divided into two main parts: the citadel and the lower town. The citadel, often elevated, contained structures like granaries and public buildings, while the lower town comprised residential and commercial areas.

Advanced Harappan Script:

The Harappan civilization is known for its script, which has not yet been deciphered. Inscriptions on seals and artifacts suggest a system of writing, but the meanings of the symbols remain a subject of scholarly debate.

Trade and Commerce:

Harappan cities were connected through trade networks, both internally and with regions as far away as Mesopotamia. Archaeological evidence indicates the presence of weights, measures, and standardized seals used for trade and administrative purposes.

Art and Craftsmanship:

Harappan artifacts showcase a high level of craftsmanship, including pottery, sculpture, and seals made of steatite. The seals often depict animals, human figures, and possibly script. The art reflects a sophisticated understanding of form and proportion.

Agriculture:
- The Harappans were engaged in agriculture, and their cities had access to fertile lands along riverbanks. Evidence of agricultural implements and granaries suggests a reliance on a well-developed agricultural system.
Religious Practices:
- The Harappans likely had religious practices, as suggested by the presence of small terracotta figurines, possibly representing deities. The purpose of some structures, such as the Great Bath, is thought to have had ritualistic significance.

Despite these characteristic features, much about the Harappan civilization remains enigmatic due to the limited decipherment of their script and the lack of comprehensive historical records. Ongoing archaeological research continues to contribute to our understanding of this ancient civilization.