Polonnaruwa | Ancient Capital of Sri Lanka

▶️Polonnaruwa: A Glimpse into Sri Lanka's Ancient History
Polonnaruwa, the second oldest of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms, was established in the 10th century after the Chola dynasty’s invasion. The city flourished under King Vijay Bahu I and reached its peak during the reign of King Parakramabahu I. Renowned for its agricultural, religious, and economic development, Polonnaruwa became a hub of Sri Lanka’s civilization. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing remarkable ruins and ancient structures.

🔗Polonnaruwa: https://lakpura.com/pages/polonnaruwa-kingdom?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033
🔗Ancient Cities: https://lakpura.com/pages/ancient-cities?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033
🔗World Heritage Sites: https://lakpura.com/pages/world-heritage-sites?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033

▶️The Legacy of King Parakramabahu
One of the key achievements of King Parakramabahu I was the construction of the massive Parakramasudra reservoir, an amalgamation of smaller irrigation tanks. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa was built by three important rulers: Vijay Bahu I, Parakramabahu I, and Niskamala. Their contributions to the development of the city have left an enduring legacy that visitors can still experience today.

🔗Parakrama Samudra: https://lakpura.com/pages/parakrama-samudra?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033
🔗King Parakramabahu: https://lakpura.com/pages/king-parakramabahu?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033

▶️The Pothgul Vehera and Ancient Buddhist Structures
Visitors can begin their exploration at the Pothgul Vehera, believed to be a Buddhist library complex established by King Parakramabahu. Nearby, a stone statue stands at 3.5 meters high, though there is debate over whether it depicts King Parakramabahu or a high priest. Polonnaruwa’s ancient city planning is evident throughout the site, showcasing the ingenuity of its creators.

🔗Pothgul Vehera: https://lakpura.com/pages/pothgul-viharaya?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033
🔗King Parakramabahu statue: https://lakpura.com/pages/pulasthi-statue?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033

▶️The Royal Audience Hall and Court
The Royal Audience Hall, built by King Nissankamalla, is a grand granite structure with 48 stone pillars. It’s a remarkable example of Sri Lanka’s medieval architecture. Close by, you’ll find the remains of King Parakramabahu I’s majestic palace. Despite being partially destroyed by Chola invaders, the palace walls have stood strong for over eight centuries.

🔗Royal Audience Hall: https://lakpura.com/pages/audience-hall?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033
🔗Ancient Cities: https://lakpura.com/pages/ancient-cities?utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=youtube.com&utm_source=lkutm00033

▶️The Shiva Corville and Sacred Quadrangle
The Shiva Corville, influenced by Indian architecture, stands out for its intricately fitted granite blocks. Nearby, the Sacred Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa) houses several important Buddhist buildings, including the Hatadage, which once housed sacred relics. The moonstone, guard stones, and Buddha statues add to the cultural and historical richness of the site.

▶️Exploring the Galvihara Complex
The Galvihara complex is home to some of the most magnificent Buddhist statues in Sri Lanka. The seated Buddha in meditation, a standing Buddha, and the massive reclining Buddha are the highlights of this site. The statues, particularly the reclining Buddha, depict the Buddha's passing and are an iconic representation of Sri Lanka’s ancient craftsmanship.

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Credits: Serendip Stories : https://www.youtube.com/@serendipstoriessrilanka