How are stupas and pagodas related?

DIFFERENCES SIMILARITIES

The earliest Stupas are in India (origin of Originated from the Stupa
Buddhism) dated from 3rd century BCE-1st
century CE
In South East Asia, the structure remained
Architectural expression of as hemispherical shape, had brick
belief in Buddhist teachings structure, but was covered in gold with
diamonds and rubies (ex. Shwedagon
Hemispherical shape building is oriented by Pagoda, Thailand 6th Century)
Axis Mundi
Burial mound of relics of
Buddha, or other Buddhist In East Asia, under the influence of Chinese

PAGODAS
architecture style, it took a form of a multi-

STUPA
teachers or saints storied building, stretched upward (ex.
Pagoda at Horyu-ji, Japan 7th Century)
Brick structure (Easily accessible in the region
and durable)

Building stands on square base, Mostly wood and stone structures (locally
represents high importance available and resistant to the specific climate)

Later, influenced by the local architectural styles

Has interior space
and traditions, Stupas were built in Asia (ex. Chattra on the top to represent
Nepal 7th century)
Buddha, Teachings and
Monastic order

Later on in East Asia, pagoda became

secondary building and were replaced by
halls containing Buddha statues
Has no interior space