Pidurangala Vihara
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Pidurangala Vihara (Sinhala: පිදුරංගල විහාරය) is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Pidurangala village of Matale District, Sri Lanka. The temple was constructed on a massive rock called Pidurangala, which is located a few kilometers north of the historical fort Sigiriya.[1]
| Pidurangala Vihara | |
|---|---|
පිදුරංගල විහාරය | |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Buddhism |
| District | Matale |
| Province | Central Province |
| Location | |
| Location | Pidurangala, Sri Lanka |
| Geographic coordinates | 07°57′57.0″N 80°45′44.7″E |
| Architecture | |
| Type | Buddhist temple |
| Website | |
| www | |
It is said that the name Pidurangala was derived from the Sinhala words pidu + ran + goda. In English language it means "offered piles of gold".[2]
It is believed that the history of Pidurangala Vihara goes back beyond to the first and second century BC.[3] From those days Pidurangala was used as a Buddhist monastery but became a prominent place during the reign of King Kashyapa (473–495 AC).
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According to ancient chronicles, Prince Kashyapa had killed his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to find out a more secure place to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother, Mugalan. With the arrival of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who were meditated there were requested move to the nearby Pidurangala.[4] In a sort of compensation, King Kashyapa refurbished the temple and made it a prominent place.[3]
The temple was said to be panchavasa, consisting of five main ritual buildings. Among the buildings are Ancient Stupa, Chapter House, Image House, Bodhighara, Preaching hall, Sangharama (Bikku Residence Building) and inscriptions with drip-ledged caves can be seen.[5]
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