Ruwanweli Maha Seya


Ruwanweliseya is one of the most significant, hemispherical structures in Sri Lanka. It was built by King Dutugemunu, one of the greatest kings in Sri Lankan history. There are many relics of Lord Buddha kept inside the dageba which is considered to as the most imposing collection of relics of Gautama Buddha than was ever enshrined in any other dagaba on the island. It is a very important and sacred place for Buddhists. Around this stupa, you will also see statues made out of the granite of King Dutugamunu, Queen Vihara Mahadevi (Mother of king Dutugamunu), and King Bhathika Tissa (140-164).

The original stupa has been about 180 feet (55 meters) in height and had been expanded and renovated by many kings thereafter. The stupa is 350 feet (107 meters) in height and 300 feet (92 meters) in diameter today.

The location of the stupa was already selected by the great Mahinda Thero and king Devanampiyatissa had planted a huge stone pillar at the location. The king removed this pillar and started to build the stupa. The pillar was moved to the northern side of the stupa. This pillar can be seen even today where king Dutugemunu placed it.
















 


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