The elaborated moonstones that placed at the foot of the staircase at the entrance of a Buddhist structure, are the most unique feature of Sinhalese architecture of ancient Sri Lanka. It was a work of art. The semi circular stone slab were carved with symbolized items to reflect the Samsara World in Buddhism. It was first created in later part of Anuradhapura period during 7th to 8th century.
The moonstone at the Image House of Pancavasa Building in Abhayagiri Complex is one of the two exquisite moonstones from 7th to 8th century, existing in Sri Lanka famed for its particularly artistic carvings. The half lotus carved at the center of the stone slab that represents the achievement of enlightenment, are enclosed by several concentric bands. The procession of swans followed by intricate foliage design known as Liyavel at the first band is symbol of life force. The four animals (elephants, lions, horses and bulls) followed one to the other that depict the four stages of life: Birth, Decay, Disease and Death, were carved at the 3rd band. The flame motif at the utmost ring was interpreted as world on fire symbolized worldly desires.
The obvious difference between the moonstones carved during Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa period is the removal of lion and bull in the carvings. This was to respect the Hindus and Sinhalese national symbol. Four animals carved on a single band was also not appeared in Polonnaruwa moonstones, instead, they were individually arranged in the separate bands of the stone slab.
The lovely Bahirave dwarfs were beautifully sculpted at the stone staircases.
The guard stones at Rathaprasada ruins in Abhayagiri Complex, was the finest piece of its kind created between 7th to 8th century. It signified fertility generated prosperity. There are two lovers emerged from the mouth of the dragon above the cobra king, who in his hand, holding a pot of abundance. The carvings were interpreted as indulgence in worldly life is like entering into a dragon's mouth.
Dwarfs and Lions are the common characters seen in the Sinhalese carving arts. Lion that symbolizes power are The national symbol of Sinhalese Kingdom.
The site of Ratnaprasada where Abhayagiriya monks congregated, confessed and rectified their mistakes by chanting the Pratimoksha Sutta. It was the practice of Bikkus to do it twice a month. The original building dated back between 7th to 10th century was inscribed as a five storey divine mansion. The present ruins belong to the later structure that built over its original chapter House.
There were four ponds at the four entrances of Abhayagiri Dagoba, setting in four cardinal directions to gather rain water falling into the terrace. Was this pond one of them, I do not have information to confirm!
Abhayagiri Stupa was established in first century BC by King Vattagamini Abhaya also known as King Valagamba. The King, one year after ascended to the throne, was facing challenges from Brahim priests and attacks from Indian Tamils invaders. He fled from the capital after Anuradhapura fell into the enemy's hand. When he passed by the Giri Monastery on the way of fleeing out from the city, he was laughed and insulted by a Jain Priest. He resolved and made a vow that should he be able to regain his kingdom, he would built a temple right here. His vow was fulfilled soon after 14 years of his refuge. He at last defeated the Tamil last ruler and re-reign the country between 89 to 77BC. The site of the massive Abhayagiri Stupa was where the original site of Jain's hermitage.
Abhayagiri Dagoba measured at 75 meters in height including of its damaged spire, was the second largest stupa in the island today. According to the description of Chinese Monk Rev. Fa-Hsieng, the stupa had been up to a height of 122 meters and was adorned with gold and silver, studded with multi jewels. The Buddha Image enshrined at the Stupa was two meters tall and was made from emerald Jade stone.
Abhayagiri Dagoba was established by King Valagamba, expanded by King Gajabahu and renovated by King Parakramabahu in 12th century. After thousand years of negligence, the original Hattaras Kotuwa top portion of Abhayagiri Stupa survives till today, but to fully restore to its past glory, it needs great effort and enthusiasm.
The beautifully ornamented pillars or beams of the four front pieces that were set in four cardinal directions at the base of the stupa, to face the gateways of the square terrace.
One of the decorative shrines at site
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