Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
torically authenticated tree in the world; tended by an uninterrupted succession of guardi-
ans for over 2000 years, even during the periods of Indian occupation.
Today thousands of devotees come to make offerings, particularly on
poya
(full-moon)
days and weekends. Sunset is a magical time to visit.
The faithful believe it was Princess Sangamitta, sister of Mahinda (who introduced the
Buddha's teachings to Sri Lanka) who brought the cutting from India so it has a connec-
tion to the geographical heart of the Sinhalese religion.
There is not one but many bodhi trees here; the oldest and holiest stands on the top plat-
form. Railing and other structures around the trees are festooned with prayer flags.
April and December are particularly busy months as pilgrims converge on the site for
snana puja
(offerings or prayers).
Brazen Palace
RUIN
So called because it once had a bronze roof, the ruins of the Brazen Palace stand close to
the bodhi tree. The remains of 1600 columns are all that is left of this huge palace, said to
have had nine storeys and accommodation for 1000 monks and attendants.
It was originally built by Dutugemunu more than 2000 years ago, but through the ages
was rebuilt many times, each time a little less grandiosely.
The current stand of pillars (now fenced off) is all that remains from the last rebuild -
that of Parakramabahu around the 12th century.
Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba
BUDDHIST TEMPLE
This magnificent white dagoba is guarded by a wall with a frieze of hundreds of elephants
standing shoulder to shoulder. Apart from a few beside the western entrance, most are
modern replacements for the originals from 140 BC.
Today, after incurring much damage from invading Indian forces, it rises 55m, consider-
ably less than its original height; nor is its form the same as the earlier 'bubble' shape. Its
lowest circumference is usually wrapped in a strip of dazzlingly coloured cloth.
Ruvanvelisaya was commissioned by King Dutugemunu, but he didn't live to see its
completion. However, as he lay on his deathbed, a false bamboo-and-cloth finish was
