Jetavanaramaya: The Colossal Brick Stupa
Jetavanaramaya is a giant brick stupa in Anuradhapura, raised in the third century by King Mahasena. When first built it was one of the tallest monuments anywhere, a feat of ancient engineering. Today its huge reddish dome and surrounding monastery ruins still impress.
Scale and construction
Built from many millions of bricks, the stupa remains vast even in its weathered state. Much of the original plaster is gone, leaving the raw brickwork exposed.
The monastery grounds
Around the stupa lie the ruins of what was once a major monastic complex. A small museum nearby displays artefacts recovered from the site.
Visiting tips
As at all stupas, shoes come off near the monument and modest dress is expected. Early morning offers cooler air and gentler light on the brick.
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