Polonnaruwa is an ancient city in Sri Lanka that served as the second capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom after the fall of Anuradhapura. It is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological treasures, including stupas, temples, statues, and irrigation systems. The city flourished during the reign of King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century, who is credited with extensive development projects, including the impressive Parakrama Samudra, a massive reservoir that still functions today. Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting its historical and cultural significance.
Rankoth Vehera is a prominent dagoba located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Constructed during the reign of King Nissanka Malla in the late 12th century, this massive stupa stands at approximately 55 meters in height and boasts a circumference of 168 meters. It is the fourth largest stupa in Sri Lanka and exemplifies the architectural prowess of the Polonnaruwa period. The name "Rankoth Vehera" translates to "Golden Pinnacle Stupa," reflecting its historical significance and the grandeur of its design.
Gal Vihara, located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is a renowned rock temple that dates back to the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu I. It is famous for its stunning rock-cut Buddha statues, which are considered masterpieces of Sinhalese rock carving. The site features four main Buddha images carved into a single, large granite rock face: a large seated Buddha, a smaller seated Buddha inside a cave, a standing Buddha, and a reclining Buddha depicting the parinirvana (final passing away) of the Buddha.
Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient and intricately designed circular relic house located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Dating back to the 12th century, this architectural marvel was constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu I and later enhanced by King Nissanka Malla. It was designed to protect a sacred stupa, which is believed to have contained a relic of the Buddha. The Vatadage features a raised stone platform adorned with elaborate carvings and four entrances, each guarded by a pair of intricately carved stone lions.
Hatadage is an ancient relic shrine located in the historic city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Constructed during the reign of King Nissanka Malla in the late 12th century, Hatadage was designed to house the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The name "Hatadage" is believed to mean "Sixty Relic House," possibly indicating the time it took (sixty hours) to build or the number of relics it was intended to enshrine. The structure showcases remarkable stone carvings and architectural prowess, reflecting the grandeur of the Polonnaruwa period.
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