Abayagiriya Stupa
A Great Buddhist Temple
The Abhayagiri Stupa is one of the most significant Buddhist monuments in the sacred city of Anuradhapura and is recognised as one of the eight major pilgrimage sites in the ancient capital.
Historical Overview
The stupa was constructed in the 1st century BC by King Valagamba within the Abhayagiri Vihara, which later developed into one of the largest monastic complexes in the Anuradhapura Kingdom. By the 1st century AD, Abhayagiri had become a renowned international centre of Buddhist learning and spiritual practice.
Features and Design
Spanning approximately 200 hectares, the monastery included all the essential elements of a Buddhist temple, along with numerous residential and institutional buildings that supported its large monastic community.
Cultural, Historical and Spiritual Significance
Historical records from Faxian, who visited and studied at Abhayagiri between 411 and 413 AD, indicate that nearly 5,000 monks lived and studied there during that period. This highlights its prominence as a major centre of Buddhist scholarship and religious life.
A Popular Destination
Today, Abhayagiri remains a revered pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from around the world, while its impressive ruins continue to reflect the grandeur and spiritual importance of ancient Anuradhapura.