Sathmahal Prasadaya (Seven Storied Palace)
The Sathmahal Prasadaya is a unique, pyramid-shaped stupa built during the Polonnaruwa Period (11th -13th century). It is one of only four square-shaped stupas found in Sri Lanka, and is the most well-known among them. The other three are located in the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura, but are rarely visited by pilgrims. One of them, Nakha Vehera, is also pyramid-shaped, while the other two are part of the Abhayagiriya Monastic Complex.
It is believed that similar pyramid-shaped stupas can be found in Cambodia and Siam, and that the Sathmahal Prasadaya may have been built for Cambodian soldiers who served under the Sri Lankan king. The building has four entrances on each side and a staircase that leads to the upper levels, but the original purpose and builder remain a mystery.
Constructed from bricks, the Sathmahal Prasadaya stands over 30 feet (9 meters) tall and can be found within the Dalada Maluwa of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
It is believed that similar pyramid-shaped stupas can be found in Cambodia and Siam, and that the Sathmahal Prasadaya may have been built for Cambodian soldiers who served under the Sri Lankan king. The building has four entrances on each side and a staircase that leads to the upper levels, but the original purpose and builder remain a mystery.
Constructed from bricks, the Sathmahal Prasadaya stands over 30 feet (9 meters) tall and can be found within the Dalada Maluwa of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
