Nepal's history dates back thousands of years, with early settlements emerging in the Kathmandu Valley. The region was influenced by various cultures, including the Malla kings in the medieval period, who contributed to art and architecture. In the 18th century, Prithvi Narayan Shah unified several small kingdoms, establishing the Shah Dynasty and laying the foundation for modern Nepal. During the 20th century, Nepal faced political changes, including the end of the absolute monarchy in 2008, which led to the establishment of a federal democratic republic. The country has also experienced significant challenges, such as the devastating earthquake in 2015, which impacted its cultural heritage and infrastructure.