Set in Anuradhapura's UNESCO World Heritage site, the Mahapali Refectory is an ancient royal alms hall renowned for its massive stone rice trough that fed thousands of monks.

Why visit Mahapali Refectory

• Historical Significance: The Maha Pali Alms Hall, believed to have been initially built by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC, was a key center for providing meals to thousands of Buddhist monks in the Anuradhapura kingdom.
• Architectural Marvel: The site features massive granite pillars and a unique granite rice trough, showcasing ancient engineering techniques used to support large-scale communal activities.
• Cultural Importance: As one of the alms halls associated with the Abhayagiriya Monastery, it represents the kingdom’s commitment to sustaining the monastic community and upholding Buddhist traditions.
• Epigraphic Insights: A nearby 10th-century stone slab inscribed by King Mihindu IV provides valuable information on the management of royal household fields, reflecting the administrative organization of the time.
• Ingenious Water Supply System: A deep square well, constructed with granite and bricks and equipped with perimeter steps, highlights the sophisticated water management and design skills of the ancient builders.