This paper analyses the "connective architecture" of the rock monasteries of the ancient kingdom of Kuča. This term is herein used to describe the structures linking various units, caves, groupings, and districts of a rock monastery; such structures include antechambers, stairways, tunnels, paths and courtyards. Examination of such architecture shows these rock monasteries to be well-planned and fully functional religious settlements,and the presence of such detailed building indicates the way in which the different units of each monastery were physically and symbolically linked. In addition to analyzing the types of construction, this paper also considers the ways in which other theoretical approaches can be applied to build a greater understanding of how rock monasteries functioned. Lastly, building on data collected at sites from the kingdom of Kuča, this paper considers the applicability of the concept of connective architecture to other Buddhist monasteries.
