Photo: Lankapic · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia CommonsPolonnaruwa Vatadage (Dalada Maluwa)
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
Two-tiered circular stone relic house located in the Dalada Maluwa (Terrace of the Tooth Relic), featuring stone screen walls, guardstones, and four seated Buddhas.
Why it matters
Considered the most ornate and structurally complete ever built on the island.
Description
Constructed during the 12th century by Parakramabahu I and embellished by King Nissanka Malla with stone screen walls and inscriptions. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Parakramabahu I, King Nissanka Malla. Key features to look for: Polonnaruwa with single-band animal processions; Carved stone screen walls depicting floral cross patterns; Nagaraja guardstones holding punkalasa (pot of abundance); Central brick core flanked by four seated stone Buddhas.
Photos
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): UNESCO Ref: 201 (1982)
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.