Isurumuniya Temple

"The temple was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who was instrumental in introducing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. When 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside. It is renowned for its stone carvings of which the most famous is one known as the “Isurumuniya Lovers”. The other carvings are of the Horseman, Elephant Pond and the Royal Family.The sculpture known as the “Isurumuniya Lovers” is a Gupta style carving of the 6th Century. It shows a woman seated on a man’s lap, lifting a finger in what some people interpret as a manifestation of her coyness.No record exists of exactly whom the two images portray. Locals believe the couple depicted in the carving are that of Prince Saliya and Asokamala. Another legend has it that it is the Hindu god Shiva and goddess Parvati depicted in the famous carving.Just above the water level are carvings of bathing Elephants. To the side of the pool is a flight of stairs. Another unique rock carving is found at the top. This time of a man seated in a regal position with the head of a horse behind him. This figure is believed to be of Parjanya, the God of rain. This has led to the belief that the Elephants in the carving below represent rain clouds.The Royal Family carving is carved on a Granite plate.There are five human figures carved on this plate. The human figure in the center is King Dutugamunu, who has a tall crown on his head and a "puna noola" around his chest. At his left are another two human figures. They are fanning him with a "Wijinipath"."