Naigala Rajamaha Viharaya at Weeraketiya
The Naigala Rajamaha Viharaya located in Weeraketiya is a historical temple believed to date back to the 3rd century BC. According to ancient texts, the temple was established by regional king Mahanaga, the brother of King Devanampiyatissa. In the past, this temple was known as 'Kala Pabbatha Viharaya', which means "temple on the black rock mountain".
The temple is unique because it was built in the style of a Pabbatha Viharaya, which is an architectural feature that is rarely found in the Ruhunu Kingdom. The Archaeology Department excavated the site in 2013 and found the stone pillars of a two-story image house from the Anuradhapura Period, as well as many other ruins dating back to the 3rd century BC.
One interesting relic found at the site is a circular stone vessel believed to have been used by Sugala Devi to hide the Bowl Relic of Buddha when she escaped from King Parakramabahu the Great of Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
Legend has it that King Mahanaga developed the agriculture of...
The temple is unique because it was built in the style of a Pabbatha Viharaya, which is an architectural feature that is rarely found in the Ruhunu Kingdom. The Archaeology Department excavated the site in 2013 and found the stone pillars of a two-story image house from the Anuradhapura Period, as well as many other ruins dating back to the 3rd century BC.
One interesting relic found at the site is a circular stone vessel believed to have been used by Sugala Devi to hide the Bowl Relic of Buddha when she escaped from King Parakramabahu the Great of Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
Legend has it that King Mahanaga developed the agriculture of...
