Embekka Devalaya

Embekka was built in the Gampola period in the fourteenth century, and what makes it matter is the drummers' hall: a timber structure whose columns and rafters carry hundreds of carved motifs, wrestlers, swans, dancers, soldiers, a double-headed eagle, and an intricate rafter joint that Sri Lankan carpenters cite as a benchmark. The carving is dense, varied and in remarkably good condition for its age, and it is studied as much as visited.

Background

The shrine was built by King Vikramabahu III of the Gampola Era (AD 1357 to 1374). It is dedicated to the god Kataragama, and a local deity, Devatha Bandara, is also worshipped here. It has three parts: a sanctum known as the Sanctum of Garagha, a Dancing Hall called the Digge, and a Drummers' Hall known as the Hevisi Mandapaya. The carved pillars date from the 18th century. Their bases are octagonal, and each pillar top, or pekada, is formed of four leaves set in a square. In all, the carving adds up to 514 unique designs, among them 256 liyawela designs and 64 lotus designs. A joint called the Madol Kurupawa pins 26 beams together.

Source: Wikipedia, "Embekka Devalaya"

Highlights

• The drummers' hall - a timber hall with carved columns and rafters throughout.
• The carved motifs - hundreds of figures, animals and patterns on the woodwork.
• The rafter joint - the complex central joint that carpenters treat as a reference.
• The shrine - the devale the hall belongs to, still in use.

When to go

January to April is the driest. Mornings are quietest and best for photographing the carving. The site is open through the day.

Practical notes

The site is small and the visit takes forty minutes. Photography inside the shrine is restricted. Shoes must be removed.

Nearby

Lankatilaka is nearby, and Kandy is northeast.

Key facts