polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is one of the most important ancient cities in Sri Lanka, serving as the country’s second capital after the fall of Anuradhapura. Located in the North Central Province, Polonnaruwa was the capital of the island from the 11th to the 13th century during the reign of the Chola Dynasty and later under the Sinhalese kings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, which offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval civilization, showcasing remarkable architectural, artistic, and engineering achievements.

Polonnaruwa gained prominence during the reign of King Vijayabahu I, who liberated the city from Chola rule in the late 11th century. However, it was his successor, King Parakramabahu I, who transformed Polonnaruwa into a thriving center of politics, religion, and culture. King Parakramabahu is best remembered for his ambitious infrastructure projects, especially the Parakrama Samudra, a massive artificial reservoir that symbolized his belief that “not even a drop of rain should flow into the ocean without serving the land.” This reservoir remains an engineering marvel, helping to irrigate vast areas of land and supporting agricultural prosperity in the region.

The city of Polonnaruwa is also famous for its Buddhist and Hindu monuments, which reflect the multicultural influences that shaped the city during its height. The Gal Vihara, a group of four large Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock, is one of the most iconic symbols of Polonnaruwa’s artistic legacy. These statues, which include a reclining Buddha, are admired for their exquisite craftsmanship and serene expressions. Other notable landmarks include the Lankatilaka Temple, a towering structure that once housed a giant Buddha statue, and the Royal Palace, where the ruins of King Parakramabahu’s grand residence can still be seen.

The sacred Quadrangle, or “Dalada Maluwa,” is another key area in Polonnaruwa, containing some of the city’s most important religious structures, including the Vatadage, a circular relic house that once enshrined the Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The intricate stone carvings on the Vatadage are regarded as some of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan artistry.

In addition to its religious and royal monuments, Polonnaruwa was a bustling urban center, with advanced urban planning, sophisticated irrigation systems, and bustling trade routes. It stood as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s prosperity and stability during the medieval period. However, after repeated invasions from South India, the city fell into decline and was eventually abandoned, leaving behind the ruins that visitors explore today.

Polonnaruwa continues to be a major cultural and historical attraction in Sri Lanka. It stands as a testament to the country’s rich past and offers a window into the architectural, religious, and artistic achievements of its medieval rulers. The city’s blend of historical significance and natural beauty makes it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the deep roots of Sri Lanka’s heritage.