the District of Nooiverakalawiya. 173 



can be little doubt that these pillars were the mere foundations 

 of a huge pyramidal wooden structure, nine stories in height, 

 which must somewhat have resembled the so-called Chinese 

 porcelain towers, and which, when decorated in the Singhalese 

 fashion, must have formed a very striking, if not a very beau- 

 tiful object. 



It is impossible for me here to describe the various antiquities 

 round the station. Perhaps a future paper may be devoted 

 to the subject. 



Some time ago I commenced a large scale plan of the ground 

 around the station, but want of leisure has forced me to 

 abandon the work. 



Mihintalae, eight miles east of Anooradhapoora, is much re- 

 sorted to by pilgrims ; for there stands the oldest of the dago- 

 bas, and there the great teacher Mahindho expired. A fine 

 view, stretching probably from sea to sea, and far up to the 

 Matelle hills, is obtained from the summit. 



At Owkonne, about twenty -six miles south of Mihintalae, 

 there is a colossal erect statue of Boodhoo, about thirty-five 

 feet in height ; it is cut out of solid rock, to which it remains 

 partially attached. The right hand is raised as in the act of 

 benediction. 



Wijitapoora, near Owkonne, has been already mentioned. A 

 siege which it underwent is minutely described in the Maha 

 "Wanse ; but on enquiry, I could not ascertain the existence of 

 any walls or other structures, except a small half ruined 

 dagobah. 



Close to the southern extremity of this district, but just 

 within the limits of Seven Korles, at Sessaeroowe Kande 

 Vihare, there is a statue of Boodhoo resembling in size and 

 position that at Owkonne. 



Both here and at other parts of the district, I have met with 

 and copied numerous inscriptions ; but regarding these deem 



