Page 46 - RASAS 2025

10 Ruhuna Arts Student’s Annual Sessions (RASAS) -2025
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A Study of the Cultural and Heritage Significance of Hiththatiya Rajamaha
Viharaya: Matara, Sri Lanka

G.R.N.A.I.B. Gamlath
Department of History and Archaeology, University of Ruhuna
nethragamlath2002@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Buddhist monasteries are prominent among the sacred sites in Sri Lanka. Numerous Buddhist monasteries
have been established or renovated over the centuries to strengthen and enhance the historical integrity and

spiritual uniqueness of these centers. The Hiththatiya Rajamaha Viharaya located in the Matara District, is a
significant example of such heritage sites. The primary objective of this research is to examine and interpret
the cultural and heritage significance of the temple. The study adopts a qualitative methodology, combining

secondary sources with field-based inquiry. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews
with five key informants, including monks and local community members, photographs of its architectural and
cultural features, non-participant observations and field visits to document local practices. Thematic analysis

was employed to interpret the data. Secondary data were sourced from published works and web publications
that relate to the temple. The findings reveal the temple’s historical role in the 18 century Buddhist revival
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under the patronage of Venerable Weliwita Sri Saranankara Thero and King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe (1747-

1781), as well as its heritage linkage to the early education of Anagarika Dharmapala. Architectural and artistic
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elements, including the 19 century wooden Pirith Pavilion, the Ivory Palace, the Sandalwood Statue, and the
centuries-old Bodhi tree, underscore the temple’s enduring religious and cultural relevance. Beyond its
historical significance, the study emphasises the role of local traditions and heritage identity. This research
foregrounds significant aspects of the temple and highlights the need for conservation and community

participation to protect its unique heritage.

Keywords: Buddhist revival, Cultural practices, Heritage significance, Hiththatiya Rajamaha Viharaya

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