Gal Vihara, Polonnaruwa Heritage Site, Sri Lanka

Gal Vihara, Polonnaruwa (29 August, 2005)

Gal Vihara is a group of three massive stone figures carved on a granite cliff. It represents the height of ancient Sri Lankan artistry in rock sculptures. On the furthest left is a seated meditating Buddha. It was carved during the reign of King Parakramabahu.

To its right, and carved around the same time, was a chapel cut out from the rocks. Within it is another seated Buddha surrounded by attendants.

Reclining Buddha of Gal Vihara (29 August, 2005)

To the right of the chapel is the oldest Buddha statue at Gal Vihara. It is a standing Buddha in the "blessing posture", with his arms folded and eyes closed. The contour lines of the rock is visible across the sculptured Buddha's delicate features.

The Buddha on the furthest right is also the largest at Gal Vihara. This is a 14 m (46 ft) reclining Buddha. it is considered of such a high standard of quality that it inspired hundreds of years of Sinhalese art, but was never matched in the artistry.