Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, A Timeless Beacon of Serenity and Devotion

Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayawewa Road, Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura District, North Central, 5000, Sri Lanka
In front of the magnificent and beautiful pagoda
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Introduction

Ruvanvelisaya Stupa, one of the most well-preserved and vibrant stupas in the ancient city. It was built in the 2nd century BC and considered one of the most beautiful structures created by King Dutugamunu. Unfortunately, the construction was incomplete due to the king's death, and his son, Prince Saddhatissa, eventually completed the construction of the great stupa. It is said that Ruvanvelisaya Stupa once stood at a height of 110 meters, but now only remains at 55 meters. Besides being a stupa, Ruvanvelisaya is also a sect with a sizable monastery. Visitors can see the Buddha shrine, gold treasury, Bodhi tree temple, monk residences, dining hall, and bathing pools here. The walls surrounding Ruvanvelisaya Stupa are adorned with numerous elephant carvings standing shoulder to shoulder and side by side. Although these elephant carvings have lost some of their ancient value due to their newer appearance, they still provide a strong visual impact and symbolize the support of the stupa.
Address
Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayawewa Road, Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura District, North Central, 5000, Sri Lanka