To the south west of the Sacred Bodhi tree are the remains of building knowns as the Mayura parivena,otherwise called Monara parivena.We are not quite certain whether this was a place of higher learning,as the world parivena indicates by its present meaning ,or if it was a place of residence for monks in ancient times.The second explanation is more probable.
According to the Chronicle the Mayura parevena was built by king Buddhadasa(340-368AC)who also apponted attendants and donated villages to this establishment for its maintenance.The orginal was replaced by Dhatusena(455-477AC) with a building of lesser height.King Mahanaga(573-575AC) effected some repairs to it.
The present building measures 66 feet by 45 feet.Ithas a few stone pillars with sculptured capitals,left fro the old building.The entrance to the building is by a flight of steps with a moonstone with just half of a lotus depicted in the middle.No guard-stones were found;and they make have been lost.However,standing singly in an isolated spot,it looks magnificent.
Just in front is the old Gantthakara Parivena,presently the permission of the circuit bungalow of the Archaeological Department.It is believed that Buddhaghosa the famous commentator of the 5th century lived and wrote his cimmentaries here.
From here let us proceed towards the Mahathupa.On our way we will be seeing a few interesting moments including the Lohapasada(sin;Lovamahapaya)which is erroneously called the Brazen palace of which the rows of stone pillars can be seen on your left hand site.
