The well-known Sule Pagoda is considered to be one of Yangon's most important historical and religious landmarks. The Sule Pagoda inherits a lengthy historical heritage, but in recent times it has also served as a popular venue for political activities, protests and rallies. In fact, Sule Pagoda is also a significant landmark for navigational purposes as well, as many of Yangon's downtown roads seem to converge at this pagoda. According to tradition, this pagoda was initially founded 2,500 years ago during Buddha Gautama's lifetime. However, since then this pagoda has been enlarged and renovated numerous times by various local rulers.