✨ Shwezigon Pagoda
Myanmar
About This Sacred Site
Shwezigon Pagoda is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Myanmar, built by King Anawrahta in the 11th century and completed by his successor King Kyansittha. The golden bell-shaped stupa is believed to enshrine a bone and tooth relic of Gautama Buddha. It served as the prototype for all later Burmese stupas, establishing the bell-shaped design that became standard throughout Myanmar. The pagoda complex also played a crucial role in the transition from nat worship (animist spirit worship) to Theravada Buddhism in Myanmar.
Key Facts
- •Built by King Anawrahta starting in 1059 CE, completed by King Kyansittha
- •Believed to enshrine a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha
- •Served as the architectural prototype for all subsequent Burmese stupas
- •Played a key role in the adoption of Theravada Buddhism in Myanmar
- •The terrace walls feature glazed plaques depicting scenes from the Jataka tales
Location
Coordinates: 21.2178, 94.8625
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