Discover the Ancient Marvel of Thuparamaya

Located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Thuparamaya is the first stupa constructed in Sri Lanka following the advent of Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE. Commissioned by King Devanampiya Tissa, this stupa marks the beginning of a long tradition of stupa-building in Sri Lanka. Join us as we explore the architectural and cultural significance of this ancient monument through an immersive 3D experience.

Historical Background

Over the years, Thuparamaya has undergone numerous restorations, preserving its significance as a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. From King Vasabha to King Parakramabahu I, many rulers have contributed to maintaining and restoring this iconic structure.

Thuparamaya was constructed under the guidance of Mahinda Thera, an emissary of Emperor Ashoka of India, who played a key role in introducing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. This stupa, believed to enshrine the right collarbone relic of the Buddha, has been a sacred site for centuries.

Architectural Details

The stupa of Thuparamaya is a classic example of early Sri Lankan architecture, with its bell-shaped dome symbolizing the Buddhist cosmos. Originally built with a vatadage, a circular relic house, the stupa is surrounded by stone pillars that once supported a protective roof.

The vatadage, though mostly in ruins today, still offers a glimpse into the sophisticated architectural techniques of ancient Sri Lanka. The pillars surrounding the stupa are a testament to the care taken to preserve this sacred site from the elements.

  • Diameter of Base: 59 feet (18 meters)
  • Height: 11 feet (3.4 meters)
  • Materials: Brick with lime plaster
  • Restoration Periods: 1st century CE, 8th century CE, 12th century CE, and the 19th century

Cultural and Religious Significance

Thuparamaya is more than just an architectural marvel; it is a living testament to Sri Lanka's deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. Pilgrims from across the country and around the world visit this sacred site to pay homage to the Buddha and connect with the island's ancient spiritual traditions.

The stupa's significance is enhanced by the belief that it enshrines the Buddha's right collarbone relic, making it one of the holiest sites in Sri Lanka.

Explore Thuparamaya in 3D

Experience Thuparamaya like never before with our immersive 3D virtual tour. Navigate through the ancient ruins, explore the architectural details up close, and feel the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site.

Behind the Scenes

Curious about how we brought Thuparamaya to life in 3D? Explore the intricate process of modeling this ancient stupa from start to finish. Our behind-the-scenes video takes you through the steps of creating a detailed and immersive virtual representation, showcasing the technology and artistry involved in this project.