Sela Chetiya got its name as it was built on a rock (Shaila). This has been identified as the Maha Seya of the Mihintale complex. It was built by King Mahadathika Mahanaga (7-9 AD) also known as Makalantissa, enshrining the Buddha’s Sacred Hair Relic between the eyebrows (Urma Loma). Mihintale is the site where King Devanapiyatissa (3rd century BCE) first met Arahant Mahinda. The very spot where this important event took place is marked by the Ambasthala Chetiya.