Four colossal Buddha images carved from a single granite wall, among the greatest masterpieces of ancient Sri Lankan sculpture.

Overview

Gal Vihara, the 'rock temple', is the most celebrated monument in Polonnaruwa and a highlight of any visit to Sri Lanka. Four large Buddha figures are carved in serene relief from one long face of grey granite: a seated Buddha in meditation, a smaller seated image within a carved cave, a striking 7-metre standing figure with arms folded across the chest, and a magnificent 14-metre reclining Buddha depicting the passing into nirvana. The calm expressions and flowing lines of the stone are considered the finest achievement of the Polonnaruwa school of sculpture.

History

The images were carved in the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, originally as part of a monastery he founded called Uttararama. The rock face once held the statues within individual image houses, traces of which survive. Gal Vihara forms part of the UNESCO-listed Ancient City of Polonnaruwa.