Patna, the capital of Bihar, is the perfect amalgamation of the ethnic and the contemporary and deemed as amongst the world's oldest continuously inhabited regions. This vibrant city has undergone many changes down the years, but the old world charm is still reminiscent in the many ancient havelis and other monuments it houses. To inform people about this historically significant region, the culture department of Bihar has come out with the first ever book themed on Patna. Currently under print, this 120-page book along with illustrations is titled `Patna: A Monumental History’.

Patna: A Monumental History strives to provide the reader a variety of lesser known information about its history, culture and heritage. It talks about at least 107 monuments located in the city. Pictures make it a more interesting read. Among the aristocratic buildings include Mariam Manzil (Anisabad), Sultan Palace (Transport Bhawan), Rizwan Castle (Fraser Road), Mazharul Haque’s residence (Fraser Road), Sachchidanand Sinha’s residence (Bihar School Examination Board), Badsah Manzil and Hajjam Saheb’s Kothi.

Patna also happens to be amongst the first few places in India to have trams. It had horse-drawn trams once upon a time. Also not many know that founder of Kolkata Job Charnock spent over 10 years as the chief of Patna factory before founding Kolkata in 1699 AD. Patna: A Monumental History also talks about the evolution of the Patna railways and how its name changed several times from Begampur, to Patna, to Patna City and now Patna Saheb.