Thuparama Gedige

Polonnaruwa


At the southern end of the Quadrangle, the Thuparama Gedige is the smallest gedige (hollow Buddhist temple with thick walls) in Polonnaruwa, but is also one of the best: it's the only one with its roof intact, supported by corbel arch-style supports. The inner chamber is delightfully cool and contains four beautifully executed standing Bodhisattva statues.

The building's exterior shows a marked Hindu influence and is thought to date from the reign of Parakramabahu I.


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