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Polonnaruwa Vatadage
Kingdom: Polonnaruwa
Period: 12th century CE
Type: temple
Built By: Parakramabahu I
Constructed: 1153-1186 CE
Overview
Circular relic house with finest stone carvings and moonstone entrances.
History
Built during the Polonnaruwa period to house the Tooth Relic. While some attribute it to Parakramabahu I, others suggest Nissanka Malla embellished it.
Construction
A circular structure with two concentric stone terraces.
Architecture
Famous for its moonstones (sandakada pahana) and guardstones (muragala) which are considered the finest examples of Polonnaruwa art. Four seated Buddha statues face the four cardinal directions.
Significance
It is the best-preserved example of a 'Vatadage' (circular relic house) in Sri Lanka.
Current Status
A well-preserved archaeological ruin in the Dalada Maluwa (Quadrangle) of Polonnaruwa.