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Polonnaruwa Vatadage circular relic shrine: stone guardstone (Muragala) and moonstone (Sandakada Pahana)?

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R
Rainer Epigraphy•925 rep

What architectural transition from concentric wooden pillars to monumental granite screens characterizes the 12th-century circular Vatadage at the Dalada Maluwa?

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The Vatadage at Polonnaruwa (in the sacred Quadrangle) is the finest surviving circular relic house in South Asia. Constructed under King Parakramabahu I and embellished by King Nissanka Malla, it features two concentric circular stone terraces surrounding a central brick stupa. The upper platform is enclosed by a stone screen wall carved with delicate flower motifs (four-petaled rosettes). Four axial entrances align with the cardinal points, each approached by granite steps flanked by dragon balustrades (Korawakgala), Naga guardstones (Muragala), and carved semicircular moonstones (Sandakada Pahana) depicting concentric bands of horses, elephants, and swans.

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Guru Dharmasena Wood•1830 rep

Unlike Anuradhapura moonstones which include the bull, Polonnaruwa moonstones omit the bull due to Hindu cultural influence during Chola rule.

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R
Rainer Epigraphy•925 rep

Four seated granite Buddha statues face outward from the central stupa, displaying the Dhyana Mudra (meditation posture) with serene classical expressions.

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Minoli Rampart•1840 rep

Granite foundation slabs rest on compacted sand and brick ballast that has prevented differential settling across the wet-season water table for 800 years.

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Dr Bandula GSMB•1850 rep

Visitors must remove footwear and headgear at the lower boundary gate; socks are recommended to prevent burning bare feet on sun-baked stone paving.

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E
Eng Suren Arch•940 rep

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