The Thuparama

This was the first such stupa constructed following the introduction of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. built by King Devanampiyathissa, it believed to enshrine the collar-bone of the Buddha. The stupa was destroyed several times and although originally constructed in the shape of a heap of rice, it was rebuilt in 1862 in the shape of bell. The octagonal pillars around the Thuparama ones supported a dome over it.