Maha parivena Maha parivena ,(the ancient name was Tana-ma-pirivena),was probably built built by Mahasena.It is said that Aggabadi 6 added a pasada to it.Sena 1 rebuilt the pasada after it eas destroyed by fire.The stone fence (called the Buddist railing)of the perivena is a Buddist motif found in ancient Buddhist architecture including that of Sanchi.An exquisite limestone torso,now in the Museum,was discovered at this site.There had once also been a Bodhi Tree Temple,presented with a golden image by Dappula2 in the ninth century. |
Atvehera The highest point of the Mihintale mountain range is the Atvehera Kanda.The world at stands for atul meaning inner.The stupa on the top is a part of the inner temple.The phrase Atvehere therefore means Inner Temple.In the pali language this place is referred to as Anto vihara(Inner Temple).However,this is not the old name of this monument but a new one.A long flight of some six hundred steps are to be climbed from the Naga Pokuna.The stupa on the top is comparatively small,and also not as impressive as the Mahasaya.However,the open view from this hilltop is very striking.The stupa ,though small,was also subjected to rifle by treasure hunters.The Archaeological Department carried out excavations and renovated it in 1964-65.The diameter of this stupa at its base is 27 meters. |
