Menik Vehera

Description

The Menik Vehera in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is an ancient Buddhist monastic complex steeped in history and architectural significance. Dating back to the 8th century, this site is considered the oldest stupa in Polonnaruwa​​. Despite its ancient origins, the exact history of the Menik Vehera remains largely unknown. It gained its name following the discovery of gems on its premises, hence "Menik Vehera", translating to "The Gem Temple"​​.

More Details about this Attraction

Architecturally, the Menik Vehera is distinguished by its raised rectangular pavilion guarded by red-brick walls. A distinctive feature is the staircase leading to a stone-carved door frame, allowing entry into the pavilion. This stupa is noted for its rare construction, incorporating decorative terra-cotta lion tiles and guard stones that enhance its architectural value​​.

The complex, once a thriving monastic site occupied by Buddhist Bhikkus, includes two image houses; the larger one houses three standing Buddha images and one seated Buddha image, while the smaller one contains a single rock-carved Buddha statue​​. The presence of a hospital and numerous buildings within the complex, unearthed through recent excavations, suggests that it served as a religious site and a medical and residential facility for monks​​​​.

The unique guard stones at Menik Vehera, featuring elephants instead of the customary bulls, and the existence of a Stupaghara (a circular wall around the platform) highlight the distinctiveness of this site​​. Moreover, the age of the stupa, along with its terraced layout and carvings, indicates its construction during the Anuradhapura era, making Menik Vehera a vital link in understanding the region's ancient Buddhist architectural heritage​​.
The Menik Vehera is a testament to the intricate and multifaceted history of Buddhist architecture and monastic life in ancient Sri Lanka, offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural and religious past.

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