Muhudu Maha Viharaya
Muhudu Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Pottuvil, Ampara District, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Believed to have been constructed over 2000 years ago by King Kavan Tissa of Ruhuna, it is situated near a prominent beach and is a significant historical site with numerous ruins.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is located in Pottuvil, Ampara District, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka.
- ›It is believed to have been built over 2000 years ago by King Kavan Tissa of Ruhuna.
- ›Muhudu Maha Viharaya is near a wide beach and is considered a suspected landing place of Princess Viharamahadevi.
- ›The site features ruins of ancient stupas, a Seema Malaka, Avasa Geya, and stone statues of Buddha and old kings or gods.
- ›According to the Rajavaliya, it is a potential landing site for Princess Devi, daughter of the King of Kelaniya, after her city was submerged.
- ›The temple's name translates to 'Ocean Great Temple,' highlighting its coastal proximity.
Important Relationships
- King Kavan Tissa of Ruhuna
- Viharamahadevi
Ruins of Ancient Stupas, Seema Malaka, Avasa Geya, Stone Statues of Buddha, Statues of Old Kings Or Gods
- Suspected Landing Site of Princess Viharamahadevi
About Muhudu Maha Viharaya
Muhudu Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Pottuvil, within the Ampara District of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province. Situated near a sweeping beach, the temple is a significant historical site, with its origins believed to date back over 2000 years to the era of King Kavan Tissa of Ruhuna.
Historical Context and Significance
The temple is notable for being one of the suspected landing sites of Princess Viharamahadevi. Ancient chronicles, such as the Rajavaliya, recount that after the city of Kelaniya was submerged by the sea due to a natural disaster in the second century BC, Princess Devi, the daughter of the King of Kelaniya, was cast into the sea in a golden vessel. She is said to have washed ashore near Muhudu Maha Vihara in Pottuvil, subsequently becoming the chief consort of King Kavan Tissa of the Ruhuna Kingdom under the name Viharamahadevi.
Archaeological Remains
The site of Muhudu Maha Viharaya preserves numerous ruins and remnants from its historical period. These include the foundations of ancient stupas, a Seema Malaka (ordination hall), and an Avasa Geya (monks' dwelling). Stone statues of the Buddha can be found, alongside two statues believed to represent old kings or deities, offering insights into the temple's past artistic and religious practices.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Muhudu Maha Viharaya located?
Muhudu Maha Viharaya is situated in Pottuvil, within the Ampara District of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province. It is located close to a wide beach.
When was Muhudu Maha Viharaya built?
Historical belief suggests that Muhudu Maha Viharaya was built over 2000 years ago. It is attributed to King Kavan Tissa of Ruhuna.
What are the notable ruins found at Muhudu Maha Viharaya?
At the temple site, visitors can observe the remains of ancient stupas, a Seema Malaka, and an Avasa Geya. Additionally, there are stone statues of the Buddha and depictions of old kings or deities.
What is the historical significance of Muhudu Maha Viharaya?
Muhudu Maha Viharaya is significant as one of the suspected landing places of Princess Viharamahadevi. Ancient chronicles suggest it may be the site where she washed ashore after her father's kingdom was submerged.
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