Yatala Vehera, Ancient Buddhist temple in Deberawewa - Thissamaharama, Sri Lanka.
Yatala Vehera is an ancient Buddhist temple built as a dome-shaped shrine resting on a foundation of flat granite stones. The perimeter wall features intricately carved elephant heads, and a substantial water channel encircles the entire structure.
This shrine was built around 2300 years ago during the 3rd century BC and stands as the first stupa erected in the Kingdom of Ruhuna. Its construction marked a turning point in how Buddhism took root in the southern regions of the island.
This sacred place was gifted to honor an important early Buddhist teacher and represents a foundational moment in the spread of the faith across the island. Locals and pilgrims visit to show respect, and the structure itself remains a center for devotion in the region.
An opening in the structure allows visitors to observe the different construction and restoration layers that span multiple centuries. This reveals how the temple was built and rebuilt over time, offering a clear view of its evolution.
Several relic containers have been discovered inside the structure, yet what was originally placed within them remains a mystery to this day. This unanswered question adds an element of intrigue to the site for those who visit.
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