Double Tank

Abhayagiri Monastery, Anuradhapura

This double tank, usually called the "Twin Ponds," measures 51 ft in width (each tank); the larger tank is 132 ft long, and the smaller tank is 91 ft long, giving a total length (both tanks together) of 223 ft. These impressive creations, whose horizontal detailing adds much to their attractiveness, were bathing pools for the Abhayagiri monks. The stairways that descend to the pools are flanked by auspicious kalashas (pots of plenty), that have a similar meaning to the European cornucopia.