Polonnaruwa

The Ancient Heart of Sri Lanka’s Heritage

Polonnaruwa, an ancient city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, holds immense historical, cultural, and archaeological significance. Once the flourishing capital of the country, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, inviting visitors from all over the world to explore its ruins, sacred temples, and incredible artistry. Polonnaruwa represents the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan civilization, showcasing not only the architectural brilliance of its time but also the religious and cultural developments that took place during its reign.

The History of Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa rose to prominence in the 11th century, after the fall of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's earlier capital. King Vijayabahu I was the ruler who liberated Sri Lanka from Chola invaders, marking Polonnaruwa as his new capital. However, it was his successor, King Parakramabahu the Great (1153–1186), who truly transformed Polonnaruwa into a thriving metropolis. His reign is often regarded as the golden era of Polonnaruwa, a time of prosperity, innovation, and extensive architectural developments.

Parakramabahu’s contribution to agriculture, especially through his irrigation schemes, helped sustain the city and its surroundings. His famous declaration, "Not a single drop of water that comes from the rain should flow into the ocean without being made useful to man," led to the creation of the Parakrama Samudra, an enormous water reservoir that still stands today.

Architectural Marvels

One of the most striking features of Polonnaruwa is its extraordinary architectural legacy, a blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, highlighting the cultural exchanges between different civilizations. The city’s ruins are spread over an expansive area, offering glimpses into the life and culture of ancient Sri Lanka.

1. The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu was once an awe-inspiring structure, believed to have been seven stories high with over a thousand rooms. While only parts of it remain today, visitors can still marvel at the ruins that reveal the impressive scale and grandeur of the palace. The thick walls and intricate stone carvings reflect the craftsmanship and advanced construction techniques of the time.

2. The Quadrangle

The Quadrangle, also known as the Sacred Quadrangle, is an area in Polonnaruwa filled with religious structures. One of the most iconic buildings here is the Vatadage, a circular relic house that once protected the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The stone-carved stairways, guardstones, and moonstones leading into the structure are masterful works of art, displaying intricate designs and symbols of protection and prosperity.

Another prominent structure in the Quadrangle is the Thuparama Gedige, one of the best-preserved buildings from the Polonnaruwa period. This shrine is unique because it is built entirely of brick, and its roof has survived the ravages of time, a rare occurrence in Sri Lankan ancient architecture.

3. Gal Viharaya

Gal Viharaya is one of the most significant and visited monuments in Polonnaruwa. This rock temple houses four massive Buddha statues, carved directly into a granite rock face. Each statue represents a different posture of the Buddha: seated, standing, and reclining, symbolizing various aspects of the Buddha’s life. The craftsmanship of these statues is unparalleled, showcasing the delicate detail and spiritual depth that the artisans were able to imbue into stone. The serene expressions of the Buddha statues are particularly noteworthy, reflecting peace and enlightenment.

4. The Rankoth Vehera

Rankoth Vehera is a massive stupa built by King Nissanka Malla in the 12th century. It stands at a height of around 55 meters and is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa. It closely resembles the stupas of Anuradhapura, symbolizing the continuity of Buddhist traditions. Pilgrims still visit Rankoth Vehera to offer prayers and pay their respects, keeping the spiritual essence of Polonnaruwa alive.

Irrigation and Agriculture

Polonnaruwa’s success as a capital was not just due to its architectural brilliance but also its advanced irrigation system. The city was home to an extensive network of reservoirs and canals, which allowed the kingdom to flourish through agriculture. The Parakrama Samudra is the crowning achievement of this system. It is a massive man-made lake covering an area of nearly 6,000 acres and was constructed to store rainwater, which could be used for farming throughout the dry seasons. This reservoir not only highlights the engineering skills of the ancient Sri Lankans but also King Parakramabahu’s vision for a self-sustaining kingdom.

The irrigation system in Polonnaruwa ensured that the kingdom could produce enough food to support its growing population. The fertile lands around the city were used to grow rice, the staple food of the country, as well as other crops essential to the people’s diet and the kingdom’s economy.

Religious Significance

Polonnaruwa was a city where both Hinduism and Buddhism flourished. This coexistence is reflected in its monuments and temples. The presence of Hindu temples such as the Siva Devale, alongside Buddhist stupas and monasteries, indicates the diversity and tolerance of the time. The Siva Devale, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is one of the oldest stone structures in Polonnaruwa and is built in the South Indian Dravidian architectural style. The blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences in Polonnaruwa showcases the religious harmony that was prevalent during the reign of its kings.

The Decline of Polonnaruwa

Despite its brilliance, Polonnaruwa’s reign as the capital of Sri Lanka did not last forever. After the death of King Parakramabahu, the kingdom faced internal strife, invasions, and a gradual decline in its prosperity. In the 13th century, the capital was moved to Dambadeniya, and Polonnaruwa was left to fall into disrepair. However, its ruins remained, preserving the legacy of a glorious era for future generations.

Polonnaruwa Today

Today, Polonnaruwa is a key tourist destination in Sri Lanka and a crucial part of the country’s cultural heritage. Visitors from around the world explore its ancient ruins, marvel at its architecture, and reflect on the ingenuity and spiritual depth of the people who once lived there. The site has been recognized for its historical and cultural significance by UNESCO, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

In conclusion, Polonnaruwa is not just an ancient city but a living testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history, architectural brilliance, and religious diversity. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to walk through the remnants of a once-thriving capital, exploring the intricate designs, massive structures, and the spiritual aura that still lingers in its ruins. The lessons of Polonnaruwa — of resilience, innovation, and cultural harmony — continue to inspire and captivate those who journey to this remarkable ancient city.