description Abhayagiri Stupa Overview
Abhayagiri Stupa, also called Abhayagiri Dagoba, is a monumental Buddhist stupa in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It formed the ceremonial center of Abhayagiri Vihara, a major monastic institution traditionally associated with King Vattagamani Abhaya and the first century BCE. The wider complex became an influential center of Buddhist learning and accommodated traditions extending beyond the Theravada school dominant in later Sri Lankan history.
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Who built the Abhayagiri Stupa in Sri Lanka?
The Abhayagiri Stupa in Sri Lanka was built by King Vattagamini Abhaya (also known as Valagamba) in the 1st century BCE. He constructed the massive monument after regaining his throne to fulfill a vow made during a previous defeat.
How big was the Abhayagiri Stupa?
At the time of its construction, the Abhayagiri Stupa was one of the largest structures in the ancient world, reportedly reaching a height of over 100 meters. It served as the towering centerpiece of a major Buddhist monastic complex.
Where is the Abhayagiri Stupa located?
The stupa is located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura in northern Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura was the ancient capital of the country and is home to numerous massive, historically significant Buddhist monuments.
What was the religious significance of the Abhayagiri monastery?
The Abhayagiri monastery became the seat of a major monastic sect that practiced Mahayana Buddhism. This caused significant historical friction with the Theravada monks of the nearby Mahavihara monastery, establishing a centuries-long religious rivalry.
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