Vessagiri
Vessagiri, also known as Issarasamanarama, is an ancient Buddhist forest monastery located within the ruins of Anuradhapura, an ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Its origins date back to the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the mid-3rd century BC, and it was later expanded to accommodate approximately five hundred monks.
Key Facts
- ›Began during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the MID-3rd century BC.
- ›Expanded during the reign of King Kasyapa (473 - 491 AD) to house around five hundred monks.
- ›Located among boulders, south of Isurumuniya in Anuradhapura.
- ›Monks resided in rock shelters built from local materials.
- ›Inscriptions of donor names in Brahmi script are found above the shelters.
- ›Much of the original rock material was repurposed for other constructions.
Important Relationships
- King Devanampiya Tissa
- King Kasyapa
Rock Shelters, Brahmi Script Inscriptions
Expansion During the Reign of King Kasyapa
Rock-Cut Architecture
About Vessagiri
Vessagiri, also identified by the name Issarasamanarama, is a significant ancient Buddhist forest monastery situated within the archaeological ruins of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka's historical capitals. Nestled among boulders approximately half a mile south of Isurumuniya, the site offers a glimpse into early monastic life.
History and Development
The monastery's origins trace back to the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the mid-3rd century BC. Its importance grew over centuries, with a notable expansion occurring during the rule of King Kasyapa, between 473 and 491 AD. This expansion enabled Vessagiri to become a residence for a substantial community of about five hundred monks.
Monastic Dwellings
The monks at Vessagiri utilized rock shelters for their accommodation. These shelters were ingeniously created by quarrying from the surrounding local rock. While today's visitors primarily see the bare stone structures, it is understood that these dwellings were originally completed with wood and other organic materials, which have long since perished.
Donor Inscriptions
A notable feature of Vessagiri is the presence of inscriptions found above the rock shelters. These inscriptions, written in the ancient Brahmi script, record the names of individuals or groups who donated to the monastery, providing valuable historical and epigraphic evidence of patronage and support for the monastic community.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Vessagiri founded?
Vessagiri was begun during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, which places its founding in the mid-3rd century BC.
Who was housed at Vessagiri?
Vessagiri was home to monks. During the reign of King Kasyapa, the monastery was expanded to accommodate about five hundred monks.
What were the living quarters like at Vessagiri?
The monks lived in rock shelters that were constructed by quarrying local materials. While the stone remains are visible today, the original dwellings would have been finished with perishable materials like wood.
Are there any inscriptions at Vessagiri?
Yes, above the rock shelters, there are inscriptions bearing the names of donors, written in Brahmi script.
What is the current state of Vessagiri?
Vessagiri is part of the ruins of ancient Anuradhapura. Much of the rock from the original structures has been removed and reused elsewhere, leaving behind bare stones.
Related Buddhist Temples
Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya
The Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya was a preeminent "great monastery" (mahāvihāra) for Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka, established in the capital city of Anuradhapura by King Devanampiya Tissa. It served as a vital center for Buddhist scholarship, attracting international scholars and producing influential commentaries on Buddhist scriptures, making it a cornerstone of Theravada orthodoxy.
Na Uyana Aranya
Nā Uyana Aranya is a significant Buddhist forest monastery located in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka, renowned for its extensive forest grounds and dedication to meditation practices. It is a primary center for the Śrī Kalyāṇī Yogāśrama Saṃsthā and serves as a residence for a large monastic community, including foreign monks, and is known for its adherence to the Pa-Auk meditation method.
Aramanapola Raja Maha Vihara
Aramanapola Raja Maha Vihara, also known historically as Denawaka Viharaya or Ganegama Viharaya, is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Ganegama, Sri Lanka. Recognized as an archaeological site, its history is believed to stretch back to the Anuradhapura Kingdom, with traditions linking its establishment to King Devanampiya Tissa and the planting of a sacred Bodhi tree sapling. The temple holds significance for its association with various Sri Lankan rulers and its role in preserving Buddhism during challenging periods.