Author:

Raj Somadeva PhD
Senior Professor in Archaeology
Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology
University of Kelaniya
Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Email: rajsomadeva@gmail.com

Abstract:: This article explores the origins of a unique religious architectural form that emerged
during the early history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The focus is on a type of ground-stone structure
characterized by a circular base. Numerous examples of this architectural form have been
unearthed, enriching our understanding of ancient Sri Lankan architecture. However, the absence
of superstructures—likely due to the deep antiquity of these monuments—precludes a
comprehensive reconstruction of their original architectural style.The study begins with an
examination of textual references, seeking parallels between historical descriptions and the
features identified through archaeological findings. This is followed by a survey aimed at situating
these monuments within their probable social context. A detailed discussion on Sri Lanka’s preBuddhist cultural environment is provided, aiming to highlight the cultural and religious
interactions that might have influenced the development of this architectural form. The essay seeks
to shed light on the religious significance of these long-overlooked structures, exploring their
historical and cultural contexts to better understand their role in the early Buddhist landscape

Key Words::Ancient, Buddhist Architecture,Monasteries,Sri Lanka, Sēla Chetiyas etc.