Ruwanwelisaya

"Ruwanweliseya, also known as the Great Stupa, is an awe-inspiring ancient monument located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Dating back to 140 BC, this majestic structure is one of the tallest ancient monuments in the world, standing at approximately 103 meters (338 feet) with a circumference of 290 meters (951 feet). It is considered one of the supreme living monuments, alongside the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stupa was originally built by King Dutugemunu (161-137 BC), who dedicated it to housing two quarters of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha. The construction was completed by his brother, King Saddhatissa, who ascended the throne after Dutugemunu's untimely death. Ruwanweliseya is renowned for its hemispherical design and massive scale. The pagoda in Myanmar/Burma was modeled after Ruwanweliseya, reflecting its significant influence on Buddhist architecture. Visiting Ruwanweliseya offers a profound glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan engineering and religious devotion, showcasing the grandeur and historical significance of this remarkable stupa."