Polonnaruwa Vatadage

Built to protect the sacred tooth relic before it was moved to Kandy, this architectural

masterpiece features a circular design that showcases the incredible skill of medieval stone

masons.

The structure is built on a two-tiered circular stone platform, accessed by a stone staircase

decorated with an intricately carved moonstone (Sandakada Pahana) and guardian stones

(Muragala) at the base. The upper platform features a small central stupa surrounded by four

beautifully seated stone Buddhas, each facing one of the four cardinal points.

The outer wall of the Vatadage is adorned with delicate low-relief carvings of lions, dwarfs, and

floral patterns, while a ring of elegant stone pillars once supported a wooden conical roof

designed to shade the interior. Walking around the circular platform allows visitors to view the

sculptures up close. The symmetry of the design, the preservation of the stone figures, and the

peaceful jungle setting make the Vatadage the focal point of the Quadrangle complex.