Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara
Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Panduwasnuwara, Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka. It is recognized as a significant archaeological site, with inscriptions dating back to the Anuradhapura Kingdom, providing historical insights into royal decrees and village immunities.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is situated in Panduwasnuwara, Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka.
- ›It has been formally recognized as an archaeological site by the Sri Lankan government.
- ›Inscriptions found at the site belong to the eras of King Sena II, King Kashyapa IV, and King Udaya II.
- ›A pillar inscription near the Bodhi tree details an immunity grant made by royal officers during the 7th year of King Udaya II's reign (9th century AD).
- ›The temple's history is believed to date back to the Anuradhapura Kingdom.
Important Relationships
- King Sena II
- King Kashyapa IV
- King Udaya II
Pillar Inscription Near the Bodhi Tree
About Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara
Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Panduwasnuwara, within the Kurunegala District of Sri Lanka. The site holds significant historical and archaeological importance, having been formally recognized by the Sri Lankan government as an archaeological site on March 13, 1970.
Historical Context and Inscriptions
The history of Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara is believed to extend back to the Anuradhapura Kingdom period. Archaeological findings at the temple grounds include inscriptions from the reigns of prominent rulers such as King Sena II, King Kashyapa IV, and King Udaya II. These inscriptions offer valuable insights into the administrative and social structures of ancient Sri Lanka.
One notable inscription, found near the Bodhi tree, is a pillar inscription from the 9th century AD. This inscription details an immunity grant issued by royal officers to the villages of Nagala and Naranvita in the Kapugama District. It specifically records a decree preventing state officials on duty from entering these villages, highlighting aspects of royal authority and local governance during the reign of King Udaya II.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara located?
Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara is located in Panduwasnuwara, within the Kurunegala District of Sri Lanka.
What is the historical significance of Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara?
The temple is significant due to its ancient origins, believed to date back to the Anuradhapura Kingdom. Inscriptions found here provide valuable historical information about royal decrees and administrative practices from that period.
What do the inscriptions at Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara reveal?
Inscriptions at the site, particularly a pillar inscription near the Bodhi tree, reveal details about royal officers granting immunities to villages. This inscription dates to the 9th century AD, during the reign of King Udaya II.
When was Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara recognized as an archaeological site?
Panduwasnuwara Raja Maha Vihara was formally recognized as an archaeological site by the Sri Lankan government on March 13, 1970, through government Gazette number 14897.
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