The Abhayagiri Dagoba built around 88 BC with an original height of over a hundred metres is one of the tallest monuments of its nature in the world. This dagoba was more than just part of a complex of monastic buildings. Abhayagiri gained popularity as a fraternity for Buddhist monks, attracting scholars from all over the world across all nuances of Buddhism and as such its influence can be traced to other parts of the world. The 3rd century AD saw the golden age of Abhayagiri, and when the Buddha’s Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka the 4th century, Abhayagiri was selected to house the relic for public veneration.
Apart from being a religious monument, the Abhayagiri Dagoba also serves as a symbol of national resurgence, as the king who built this great monument did it to fulfill a vow that he made when he was compelled to flee his kingdom. 14 years following his exile, the king returned, overthrew the Dravidians and regained the kingdom. This era marked the end of Brahmin and Jain influence in the country.
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