Medirigiriya Vatadage, Buddhist temple complex in Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka
Medirigiriya Vatadage is a Buddhist temple complex on a rocky outcrop featuring three concentric rings of stone pillars surrounding a central stupa at its core. The elevated position and geometric layout create a distinctive architectural arrangement from ancient Sri Lanka's religious past.
The site was established during the Anuradhapura period and received major enhancements from King Kanittha Tissa between 192-194 CE when he added an assembly hall. These improvements document the evolution of Buddhist religious architecture during this era.
The name Vatadage means "roofed house" and refers to the circular layout that functioned as a covered meeting place for Buddhist devotees. Visitors can still see how the four Buddha statues face the cardinal directions, reflecting the traditional Buddhist understanding of sacred space and spiritual orientation.
Access is via Hingurakgoda Road and then Medirigiriya Road from Polonnaruwa, with the site located roughly 34 kilometers away. A prominent stone entrance frame with steps leads to the elevated inner area, providing clear orientation for visitors exploring the grounds.
The northern entrance preserves a carefully crafted stone frame connected to a series of 27 stone steps ascending to the stupa. This precision in design reveals the craftsmanship ancient builders invested in creating accessible pathways to sacred structures.
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