Isurumuniya

Isurumuniya, originally known as Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara, is a significant Buddhist temple located near the Tissa Wewa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The temple's construction is attributed to King Devanampiya Tissa, who reigned from 307 BC to 267 BC in the ancient Sri Lankan capital. It was initially built to accommodate 500 children of high caste who were ordained into monastic life. Later, King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) undertook renovations and renamed the viharaya "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera," incorporating the names of his daughters and himself.

Historical and Artistic Significance

Isurumuniya is particularly renowned for its ancient stone carvings, which are considered masterpieces of the Anuradhapura Period. Among the most notable are the "Isurumuniya Lovers," the "Elephant Pond," and "The Royal Family." The "Elephant Pond" carving, dated to the 7th century AD, features four elephants bathing and exhibits stylistic similarities to elephant figures found at Mamallapuram in India, indicative of Pallawa tradition. The "Royal Family" carving, from the 8th century AD, depicts King Dutugamunu with attendants, carved in low relief on granite. The "Isurumuniya Lovers" plaque, believed to depict King Kuvera Vaisrawana and his Queen Kuni, bears an ancient Brahmi inscription and was likely relocated to its current position from its original site, possibly after the donation of Vessagiriya to the Maha Sangha.

The temple complex also features a viharaya connected to a cave, with a small stupa built on the cliff above, though the stupa's construction is noted as belonging to the present period. A rock carving of a horse is also present. Nearby the temple lies the Ranmasu Uyana, an ancient garden that further contributes to the historical richness of the site.