Medirigiriya Vatadage

The Medirigiriya Vatadage is a historical structure located in the Polonnaruwa District of Sri Lanka. It stands as a testament to the country’s ancient architectural prowess and Buddhist heritage. This circular relic house, known as a Vatadage, was designed to hold the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. It is renowned for its intricate stone carvings, beautiful balustrades, and the unique concentric circles of pillars that once supported a wooden roof. The site is part of the Medirigiriya temple complex, which dates back to the Anuradhapura period, showcasing the blend of religious significance and artistic expression from that era.

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Historical Background of Medirigiriya Vatadage

The Medirigiriya Vatadage was discovered in the late 19th century by H.C.P. Bell, a British civil servant and pioneering archaeologist in Ceylon. It was built during the Anuradhapura period, which lasted from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD. The exact date of construction is not known, but it is believed to have been built around the 7th century AD. The creator of this magnificent structure is also not definitively known, but it is attributed to King Aggabodhi IV of Anuradhapura. Over the centuries, it has seen various renovations and additions by successive rulers.

Medirigiriya Vatadage, despite its religious significance, did not remain isolated from historical events. It witnessed the transition of power from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa. The site was not just a religious sanctuary but also a center of learning and a place of refuge during times of invasion. It has withstood the test of time and elements, surviving to be one of the best-preserved Vatadages in Sri Lanka.

Throughout its history, Medirigiriya Vatadage has been a focal point for Buddhist worship. It has attracted monks and laypeople alike, serving as a place for meditation, education, and religious ceremonies. The site’s strategic location also suggests it may have played a role in the regional power dynamics, serving as a symbol of the king’s patronage of Buddhism and his commitment to the welfare of his people.

Archaeological excavations have revealed that the site was inhabited even before the construction of the Vatadage. Evidence of earlier structures and artifacts suggests a long history of occupation and religious activity. The Vatadage itself has undergone several phases of construction, with different kings leaving their mark on the site.

The Medirigiriya Vatadage stands as a silent witness to the ebb and flow of Sri Lankan history. It has seen the rise and fall of kingdoms, the spread of Buddhism, and the changes in artistic styles. Today, it is a cherished archaeological site, offering insights into the island’s past and the ingenuity of its people.

About Medirigiriya Vatadage

The Medirigiriya Vatadage is a circular structure built on a raised platform. It is accessed by a single entrance, leading to a path that circumambulates the central stupa. The platform is adorned with guard stones and balustrades, featuring intricate carvings of mythical creatures and floral motifs. The central stupa, which once housed the sacred tooth relic, is surrounded by four Buddha statues facing the cardinal directions.

The Vatadage’s architecture is a marvel of ancient engineering. It was constructed using finely cut stone blocks, fitted together without the use of mortar. The structure originally featured three concentric circles of stone columns, which supported a wooden roof. This roof protected the stupa from the elements, a testament to the reverence for the relic it enshrined.

One of the most striking features of the Medirigiriya Vatadage is its stone carvings. The guard stones at the entrance depict a rich tapestry of Buddhist symbolism. The moonstones, which serve as the threshold, are intricately carved with symbols representing the cycle of life and the path to enlightenment. The balustrades are equally impressive, with their detailed carvings of lions and dwarfs.

The construction methods and building materials used in the Vatadage reflect the technological capabilities of the time. The builders employed advanced techniques to carve the stone and align the structure with astronomical positions. The choice of stone as a building material ensured the longevity of the structure, allowing it to survive in good condition for over a millennium.

The architectural highlights of the Medirigiriya Vatadage are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve a functional purpose. The layout of the structure facilitates a processional path for worshipers, while the elevated platform offers protection from flooding. The harmonious blend of form and function is a hallmark of ancient Sri Lankan architecture, exemplified by the Vatadage.

Theories and Interpretations

Several theories exist about the Medirigiriya Vatadage’s original purpose and significance. The most widely accepted view is that it was built to enshrine the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. This theory is supported by the presence of the central stupa and the religious significance of tooth relic worship in Buddhism.

There are mysteries surrounding the Vatadage, particularly regarding the identity of its builder and the exact date of its construction. Some historians suggest that it may have been built by a lesser-known king or a wealthy patron, rather than a prominent monarch. The lack of definitive historical records leaves room for speculation and further research.

The intricate carvings and architectural features of the Vatadage have led to various interpretations. Scholars have matched these to historical records and Buddhist texts, attempting to decipher their symbolic meanings. The moonstones, for example, are believed to represent the Buddhist teaching of Samsara, the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Dating the Medirigiriya Vatadage has been a challenge for archaeologists. However, stylistic analysis and comparisons with other structures from the same period have provided estimates. Radiocarbon dating and other scientific methods have also been employed to narrow down the construction period.

The Medirigiriya Vatadage continues to be a subject of academic interest. Its blend of art, architecture, and spirituality offers a rich tapestry for study. The site remains an important piece in the puzzle of Sri Lanka’s ancient history, inviting both admiration and scholarly inquiry.

At a glance

• Country: Sri Lanka
• Civilization: Anuradhapura
• Age: Approximately 7th century AD