Photo: AtulaSiriwardane at English Wikipedia · Public domain · Wikimedia CommonsKelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
Sacred riverside temple commemorating the Buddha's third visit to Sri Lanka to settle a dispute between King Maniakkhika and Prince Mahodara; noted for modern Solias Mendis murals.
Why it matters
A revered Solosmasthana shrine containing fine examples of 18th-century Kandyan murals and 20th-century revivalist fresco masterpieces.
Description
Destroyed by Portuguese invaders in 1510 and rebuilt under King Kirti Sri Rajasinha; the modern was commissioned in 1927 by Mrs. Helena Wijewardene. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Yatala Tissa, King Parakramabahu VI, Helena Wijewardene. Key features to look for: Solias Mendis frescoes depicting the arrival of Sanghamitta Theri; External stone plinth friezes of dwarfs (Ganas) and dancing swans; Paddy-heap shaped central on the Kelani River bank; Elaborate dragon archway (Makara Thorana) entrance.
Photos
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Solosmasthana #3; Schedule No. 12
Visiting responsibly
Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where requested, never climb on monuments or pose with your back to Buddha images, and follow guidance from custodians and the Department of Archaeology.