Embekka Devalaya
Nestled in the Udu Nuwara, about eight miles from Kandy and close to Daulagala, is the famed Embekke Devale, known for its exquisite wood carvings, pillars, and other structures. UNESCO has recognized the intricate carvings on the wooden pillars as the finest woodcarvings in the world. Legends abound about the origins of this devale, built during the Gampola period of King Wickrema Bahu II in 1371 AD by Henakanda Biso Bandara and Rangama, who built it in a three-story building dedicated to God Kataragama.
The Devale comprises two segmented buildings: the Digge (Dancing Hall) and the Drummers Hall (Hewasi Mandappaya). The wood carvings on the capital pillars are particularly impressive, with varied shapes skillfully moulded into intricate designs. The roof of the Devale also displays classic carpentry masterpieces, including the 'Madol Kurupuwa,' a wooden pin that holds together 26 rafters at the hipped end of the Digge's roof. Overall, there are 514 exquisite carvings in the Devale,...
The Devale comprises two segmented buildings: the Digge (Dancing Hall) and the Drummers Hall (Hewasi Mandappaya). The wood carvings on the capital pillars are particularly impressive, with varied shapes skillfully moulded into intricate designs. The roof of the Devale also displays classic carpentry masterpieces, including the 'Madol Kurupuwa,' a wooden pin that holds together 26 rafters at the hipped end of the Digge's roof. Overall, there are 514 exquisite carvings in the Devale,...
