Monastero buddista della foresta di Vessagiriya

Descrizione

Il complesso monastico buddista di Vessagiriya, situato nella foresta, fu costruito nel III secolo a.C. dal re Devanampiyatissa. Nel complesso sono stati rinvenuti ventitré esemplari. La leggenda vuole che dovesse essere più grande di quello attuale, poiché le rocce provenienti da questo luogo furono utilizzate per altre costruzioni in fasi successive.
Si ritiene che il nome Vessagiriya derivi dal termine sanscrito Vaishya e dal termine singalese Giri. Vaishya è una delle caste di potere nella cultura indiana, al servizio degli uomini d'affari e dei commercianti. Giri è una parola singalese che significa collina. Quindi, Vaishya Giri significherebbe la montagna degli industriali e dei commercianti. Ciò suggerisce anche che i modesti monaci che risiedevano qui fossero mercanti nella loro vita secolare.
Le iscrizioni incise sulle pietre da monaci e appassionati rivelano la storia di Vessagiriya. Secondo gli antichi documenti, Arahat Mahinda Thero, fondatore del Buddhismo in Sri Lanka, ordinò 500 Vaishyan a Vessagiriya. Ci sono ancora superfici di granito piane dove i monaci asceti si sono rilassati.
Si ritiene che Vessagiriya fosse precedentemente conosciuta come Issarasamanarama ai tempi del re Devanampiya Tissa.

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Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, Vessagiriya stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient times. The site boasts a remarkable fusion of nature and human ingenuity, creating an awe-inspiring marvel. At its core, Vessagiriya embodies Pabbatha Vihara architecture, a style that seamlessly merges man-made structures with the natural rock formations surrounding them. Let us embark on a journey to discover the secrets and splendour of Vessagiriya.

Pabbatha Vihara Architecture

Pabbatha Vihara architecture encompasses a unique approach that integrates constructed elements with the inherent beauty of the landscape. Rather than imposing upon nature, ancient architects worked with it, crafting structures that harmoniously blended into the surroundings. The key feature of this architectural style is the arrangement of rectangular building areas, also known as courtyards, which are strategically positioned at various levels. These courtyards are often encircled by water, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal and creating a serene atmosphere.

The Four Sacred Buildings

As we ascend to the upper courtyard of Vessagiriya, a mesmerizing sight unfolds. Four sacred buildings, meticulously arranged in a specific order, grace this elevated space. Each building holds its significance and contributes to the spiritual ambience of the site. The first is the stupa, a structure symbolizing enlightenment and spiritual awakening. Next is the bodhighara, a place for meditation and introspection. Following that is the patimaghara, a shrine dedicated to the veneration of Buddha images. Lastly, we encounter the Prasada, a grand structure believed to be the uposathaghara, where monks gather for religious observances.

Manju Sri Bhashitha Vastuvidyawa

To gain deeper insights into the architectural intricacies of Vessagiriya, we turn to an ancient Sanskrit manuscript, Manju Sri Bhashitha Vastuvidyawa. This invaluable book explains the buildings and standards employed in constructing Pabbatha Viharas. It serves as a comprehensive guide, shedding light on the intentions, symbolism, and principles governing these awe-inspiring monasteries' creation.

The Rectangular Precinct

At the heart of Vessagiriya's monasteries lies the large rectangular precinct, a defining feature of this architectural style. This expansive space encapsulates the sacred quadrangle, accommodating the four significant shrines previously mentioned. The rectangular precinct serves as the spiritual nucleus of Vessagiriya, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and religious significance associated with these magnificent structures.

Identification of the Uposathaghara

Among the four sacred buildings, the Prasada stands out as a structure of great importance. Scholars and archaeologists have identified it as the uposathaghara, where monks gather for uposatha, a fortnightly Buddhist observance. The prasada's distinctive features, architectural elements, and historical context provide strong evidence supporting this identification, further adding to the allure of Vessagiriya.

Vessagiriya stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and the artistic prowess of ancient architects. The fusion of natural rock formations with man-made structures exemplifies the harmonious relationship between humans and the environment. As visitors explore the monasteries of Vessagiriya, they are transported back in time, awestruck by the architectural marvels that have withstood the test of centuries. This site serves as a reminder of the wisdom and skill possessed by our ancestors, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the enduring beauty of the past.

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