description Maligawila Stupa Overview
The Maligawila Stupa is an ancient Buddhist monument complex located in the Monaragala District of Sri Lanka, dating to the 7th century CE. The site is renowned for its colossal freestanding limestone Buddha statue, which rises approximately 14 meters (46 feet) high and was carved from a single block of stone. Rediscovered in fragments in 1951, the statue was later reconstructed and represents an important example of Sri Lankan sculpture from the Anuradhapura period.
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What is the Maligawila Stupa famous for?
The Maligawila Stupa complex, located in Sri Lanka, is most famous for housing one of the tallest freestanding stone Buddha statues in the country. The massive statue, which stands roughly 14.5 meters high, was carved from a single block of limestone.
When was the Maligawila Stupa built?
The complex dates back to the 7th century and is believed to have been constructed during the reign of King Aggabodhi. It represents a significant period of ancient Sri Lankan architectural and sculptural achievement.
Where in Sri Lanka is the Maligawila Stupa located?
The Maligawila Stupa is situated in the Monaragala District of the Uva Province in Sri Lanka. It sits near the village of Maligawila, which is part of a broader archaeological zone in the region.
Was the Maligawila Buddha statue ever damaged?
Yes, the colossal freestanding Buddha statue at Maligawila was found broken into several pieces when it was rediscovered in the mid-20th century. It underwent a massive, painstaking reconstruction effort by the Sri Lankan government before being officially re-erected in 1980.
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