Ruwanweli Maha Seya
This is the centerpiece of the Maha vihara (Great Monastery). The Maha Vihara was the most important monastery in Anuradhapura due to its long history of guarding the traditions of Theravada Buddhism and its bhikkus preserved the most sacred shrines in the city.
A dagaba, stupa, or thupa (relic chamber), is a dome that is built over sacred relics, the bodily remains of the Buddha. King Dutugamunu had already built the Mirisavati and his magnificent Brazen Palace, but he wanted something bigger and better for his greatest work.
It is said that this cost the king 6.4 million coins in wages and that the workers received food and clothing and considerable ‘extras’ for the work.
Apart from its material treasures the Ruwanweliseya is venerated and has become a pinnacle for Buddhists all around the world as it contains the largest portion of relics of the Buddha. According to the ancient chronicle Dhatuwamsa, one-eighth of the whole-body-relics of the Buddha have been deposited in the...
A dagaba, stupa, or thupa (relic chamber), is a dome that is built over sacred relics, the bodily remains of the Buddha. King Dutugamunu had already built the Mirisavati and his magnificent Brazen Palace, but he wanted something bigger and better for his greatest work.
It is said that this cost the king 6.4 million coins in wages and that the workers received food and clothing and considerable ‘extras’ for the work.
Apart from its material treasures the Ruwanweliseya is venerated and has become a pinnacle for Buddhists all around the world as it contains the largest portion of relics of the Buddha. According to the ancient chronicle Dhatuwamsa, one-eighth of the whole-body-relics of the Buddha have been deposited in the...
