Photo: Shehanw · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia CommonsTissamaharama Raja Maha Viharaya
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
Monumental (circumference of 165 meters) constructed on the banks of Tissa , serving as the political and spiritual heart of the ancient Ruhuna Kingdom.
Why it matters
One of the sixteen sacred pilgrimage destinations (Solosmasthana), built to enshrine sacred tooth and forehead relics.
Description
Founded in the 3rd century BCE by King Mahanaga; served as the regional gathering point where King Dutugamunu assembled his army to reunify the island. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Mahanaga, King Kavantissa. Key features to look for: Colossal white illuminated at sunset across Tissa ; Ancient granite column field of the monastic chapter house; Carved limestone guardstones with floral and Naga motifs; Paved pradakshina maluwa and surrounding brick boundary walls.
Photos
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Solosmasthana #8; Protected Monument
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.