Archaeologists in Sri Lanka discovered 17 gold-plated bronze Buddha statues during excavations at the Abhayagiri temple complex [1].
The find provides new insights into the artistic and religious history of Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of the island nation. Such discoveries help researchers understand the scale of Buddhist influence and the craftsmanship available in the region during its peak.
The statues were recovered during ongoing archaeological work focused on the rampart of the ancient capital [3]. The Abhayagiri temple complex in north-central Sri Lanka has long been a site of significant historical interest due to its role as a center of learning and spirituality.
Researchers said the discovery is part of a broader effort to document the heritage of the site. While the team has found artifacts at the temple site before, the number and material of these specific figures mark a significant addition to the local record [2].
Each of the 17 statues [1] is composed of bronze with a gold plating, a technique that suggests high status or royal patronage. The excavation team continues to survey the surrounding area to determine if more figures remain buried within the rampart structures.
Local authorities have not yet released a specific timeline for when the statues will be moved to a museum for permanent display or further conservation. For now, the artifacts remain under the supervision of the archaeological team to ensure their stability after centuries of burial.
“Archaeologists in Sri Lanka discovered 17 gold-plated bronze Buddha statues”
The recovery of these statues underscores the importance of the Abhayagiri complex as a primary hub of early Buddhist art. Because the figures are gold-plated bronze, they indicate a level of wealth and resource allocation that suggests the temple was likely supported by the state or wealthy elites, reinforcing the site's historical status as a major religious institution in ancient South Asia.
