Manik Vehera
It is believed that the Menik Vehera Aramaic complex of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom was built in the 8th century, with later additions made to the site. Although the original name of the stupa is unknown, it is considered the oldest stupa in the region. This small stupa sits atop a high platform with stone steps leading to its peak, surrounded by a brick wall.
The complex includes two image houses, with the one closest to the stupa featuring three standing Buddha images and one seated Buddha image. The smaller image house contains a single rock-carved Buddha statue. Recent excavations have revealed the presence of a hospital and several buildings where priests resided.
Unique to Menik Vehera is its guard stones, which typically feature a carving of a bull. However, at the entrance of Menik Vehera, the bull carving is replaced by an elephant.
The complex includes two image houses, with the one closest to the stupa featuring three standing Buddha images and one seated Buddha image. The smaller image house contains a single rock-carved Buddha statue. Recent excavations have revealed the presence of a hospital and several buildings where priests resided.
Unique to Menik Vehera is its guard stones, which typically feature a carving of a bull. However, at the entrance of Menik Vehera, the bull carving is replaced by an elephant.
