Pabalu Vehera
The origin of this unusually shaped stupa is unknown but it is believed to been built by one of the king Parakramabahu’s ( 1153-1186 AD)
consorts, queen Rupawathi. The original name of this stupa is not known. The current name "Pabalu" (meaning beads) was derived from the fact that a large number of small glass beads being found during the excavation of the area around the stupa. Top part
of the stupa has been destroyed by invaders and centre of the stupa also has
been destroyed probably by treasure hunters in the recent times.
Generally stupa’s have only 4 image houses around it. But there are nine
image houses around the stupa. These contain sitting images in some and standing
images in others. One houses a “Sri Pathla” (the impression of the foot)
of Buddha. Another one contains a Buddha statue in the reclining position.
It is thought these image houses have been built at different time periods by different
people. In addition there is a
stairway to reach the first level of the stupa.
Photos
March 1, 2008
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