Moon stone
- The Moonstone, known in Sinhala as Sandakada Pahana, is a unique stone carving found at the entrances of ancient Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka.
- It dates back to the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods of ancient Sri Lankan history.
- The semicircular design symbolizes the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
- Traditional Moonstones feature concentric bands decorated with animals, floral patterns, and flames.
- The animals—such as the elephant, lion, horse, and bull—represent human desires and the endless cycle of existence.
- A row of lotus petals at the center symbolizes purity and spiritual enlightenment.
- Moonstones are carved from stone with exceptional detail and artistic precision.
- The most famous Moonstones can be seen in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa archaeological sites.
- Today, the Moonstone is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan art and symbolism.
