Ancient Patna , known as  Pataliputra , was the capital of the  Magadha Empire  under the  Haryanka ,  Nanda ,  Mauryan ,  Sunga ,  Gupta ,  Pala  and Suri  dynasties.  Pataliputra  was also a famous seat of learning and fine arts. Its population during the  Maurya  period (around 300 BCE)