Mathura was an important

Hint: Mathura was the main centre for the worshipping of Lord Krishna. It is one of the Sapta Puri, the seven cities which were regarded as holy by Hindus.

Complete answer:
- Around 2500 years ago, Mathura was a prominent city. It was at the intersection of two main trade routes, i.e. from north to south and from the north-west to the east.
- Mathura was an important religious centre. It was the main centre for the worshipping of Lord Krishna. It is one of the Sapta Puri, the seven cities which were regarded as holy by Hindus. On the site of Krishna’s birthplace (an underground prison), the Kesava Deo Temple was built in ancient times. Mathura was also the capital of the kingdom of Surasena, governed by Kansa, who was the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna.
- Buddhist monasteries and Jain shrines were also found in Mathura. The city was protected from all around. There were many holy places in the city, which were used by people for the purpose of gathering to spend some spare time. From the neighbouring areas, farmers and herders used to send food for the city dwellers. Mathura was also a centre for the manufacturing of some striking sculpture.

Note: In Mathura, 25 ghats are built along the banks of river Yamuna. Amongst all of them, Vishram Ghat is considered to be the most sacred. As per the legends, after killing Kansa, Lord Krishna came to take rest at this ghat.