This Bodhi tree is a sapling of the original Tree at which the Buddha sat as he attained enlightenment and was sent to Sri Lanka by King Dharmasoka through the Thero Sangamitta in response to the request made by King Devanampiyatissa. The tree flourishes to tis day at the samr site at which it was planted. This tree apart from being sacred to the aldest historicaltree of the world. Kings who came to the throne after Devanampiyatissa have embellished the site with prakaras, makara arches, flights of steps etc. Channels too had been constructed for conveying the water required for watering the tree.
Ruwanveliseya Nuwaragam Palata-East, Anuradhapura
This dageba 300 ft. in diameter was constructed by King Dutugemunu (167-137 BC) the first great hero of the Sinhalese. The original height of the dagoba was also about the same. Dutugemunu was, however, unable to complete the work on the dagoba. Broad flights of steps are founf at the enterance of the sand strewn courtyard as well as the paved tenace of the dagoba. The retaining wall was covered with figures of elephants in frontal aspect represented as standing cheek by jowl. At the four cardinal points of the dagoba are four vahalkadas (frontispieces) which have preserved some very old sculptures. Work on this dagoba has been done time and again after the day of King Dutugemunu. The Mahavansa records that the 3 floral terraces were encased in stone work in the reing of Lajjitissa (119-109 BC).
Temple of the Tooth-relic, Anuradhapura Nuwaragan Palata-East, Anuradhapura
In the ancient inner city of Anuradhapura are several ancient buildings belonging to various period close to each other. Of these the most importance is the Temple of the Tooth-relic, the site of which is marked by an inscription of Mahinda IV the right cannine Tooth-relic of the Buddha brought to this country in the ninth year of Kirtisri Meghawaruna (301-328 AD) was first deposited in a house called the Dharmasoka build in the reign of Devanampiyatissa (250-210 BC). Although the chronicles give particulars of the Temples of the Tooth relic elsewhere, there is very little mention of the temple at Anuradhapura. That Dhatusena (455-473 AD) repaired it, that Aggrobodhi I (571-604 AD) embellished it with it with beautifull jewels and that Mahinda IV (956-972 AD) repaired it after the Cholas despoiled it have been notice.
Gedige, Anuradhapura Nuwaragam Palata-East, Anuradhapura
There are the remains of a brick structure near the ancient temple of the Tooth Relic at Anuradhapura. This building known as the Gedige did not have any wood used in its atructure, the doors and windows being of stone. Although the history of this structure, is not known. It exemplifies a special type of structure wholly built of brick and having a domical roof.
Asokarama Nuwaragam Palata-North, Elapathwewa
Three miles north of the city is the site now known as the Asokarama at pankuliya. Among the remains are those of a dagoba, of anunnery and of a bath-house. the bath-house has had a roof supported on 84 pillars. A Budha statue of lime stone broken in at hip and with the hands served, found in one of the image-house has since been conserved and placed on a pedestal. An inscription of Mahinda IV (956-972 AD) has also been found at the site.
Isurumuni Vihara Nuwaragan Palata-South, Anuradhapura
Not far from Vessagiriya and below the bund of the Tissawewa Tnak, is the Isurumuni Vihara. the structure here have been renovated recently and their original features have now become obliterated. The sculpture of a pair of lovers at this site is one of the best pieces of sculpture known from anywhere in the Island. The rock with bounds the edge of the pond at the site carries sculptures of elephants. In a niche cut into the rock at a point above these elephants are the figures of a man seated in the Maharaja leela attitude and the head of a horse. It is notr yet setteled as to wha this figure represents but it has been taken as a work of a Pallave School and dated in the seventy century. Professor Paranavithana has suggested that this figure is that of the God Parjanya.
Gold Fish Park Nuwaragam Palata-South, Anuradhapura
The remains of a park constructed by Devanampiyatissa (250-210 BC) are found below the Tissawewa tank. This 400 acre block of land well suited for the park. the rocky boulders found here and there had been ingeniously incorporated into the plan of the park. At the site ate two stone punds. On the bed rock which abuts one of these are sculptures of elephants sporting in a lotus pond. On a boulder near this pond is a small rock-cut pond which may originally heve had a roof. The gold-fish which lent this name to the park may have been reared here. part of the pond on the there side has been excavated on the living rock. The ancient channels which fe these ponds can be seen even today.
Lowamahapaya Nuwaragam Palata-North, Anuradhapura
The structure the remains of which are found close to the Sacred Bodhi Tree with 40 rows of 40 pillars in it are those of the Brazen Palace. The orginal nine storied structure here clad with copper and bronze tiles was reared by King Dutugemunu (161-137 BC). This building was accidentlly distroyed by fire during the reign of Saddhatissa (137-119 BC) and was reconstructed as a 7 storied structure by that king. Repairs were effected to the structure time and again. The Brazen Palace of the tenth century was destroy by the Cholas in the early years of the 11th Century. the latest construction of the Brazen Palace was by Parakrama Bahu I.
Mirisawetiya Nuwaragam Palata-North, Anuradhapura
A person entering the city from the Puttalam Road meets Mirisaweti Dagoba, the first religious edifice of Dutugemunu (161-137 BC). According to the Mahavansa the relic enshrined Sceptre of the king deposited in this dagoba. A monastery has also been constructed about this dagoba. In the 7th centry AD this dagoba has been renovated by a prince names Kasapa. Again in the 10th century King Kassapa V repaide this dagoba and beutified its prescints with various avasa buildings.
Lankarama Nuwaragam Palata-North, Anuradhapura
A person who turns left from the Cicular Road and goes along the Anula Mawatha would meet a recently renovated dagoba which evidently is the Galhebakada dagoba built by Valagambahu (89-77 BC). This dagoba is now known as the Lankarama. The concentric circular of pillars range around the dagoba proves that as at the Thuparam, there was a roof to this dagoba as well.
Jetawana Dagoba Nuwaragam Palata-North, Anuradhapura
This dagoba constructed by King Mahasena (274-301 AD) the last king of the Mahavansa is 321 ft. in height and 370 ft. diameter at base. West of the dagoba is an image-house which is connected with this dagoba. Of this latter structure, which has had a demical roof one of the door jambs measure 26 ft. Although the fragments of a colosal lotus pedestal are at the site no statue or parts of one survive.
Thuparama Dagoba Nuwaragam Palata-North, Anuradhapura
This is the smallest ancient dagoba in Anuradhapura is the first historical dagoba in the whole island. The dagoba built by King Devanampiyatissa in the form of a paddy heap had been ruin in the day of King Agrabodhi II (604-614 AD0 and reconstructed. The dagoba reared on a circular terrace 11 ft. 4 inh. high and 164 1/2 ft. circumference, is itself 59 ft. in height as at present. The right clavicle bone of the Buddha is said to be enshrined here. The pillar capped with sculptured capitals ranged in concentric circles round the dagoba indicate that it was roofed over at our stage. the present bell shape of the dagoba was given to it ata a recenstruction.
Abhagiri Dagoba Nuwaragam Palata-North, Anuradhapura
King Valagambahu being defeated by the Tamils was in fight (103 BC) when he heard an insult uttered by a jain ascetic named Giri. Valagambahu who defeated the Tamils and regained the throne (89-77 BC) destroyed Giri's ashram and built theis dagoba on the same spot. There was a belief that a dagoba named Sila stupa existed here covering the foot print left at the spot by the Buddha on one of his visits. the Dipavamsa states that the Adhayagiri dagoba was built to enclose the Sila stupa. The Mahavansa states that Valagambahu built the Abhagiri dagoba and a vihara with 12 cells.
Twin ponds Nuwaragam Palata-East, Anuradhapura
The stone built twin ponds are found along side the Vatavandana Road. It is believed to have been built for the benefit of the monks of the Abhayagiri Fraternity. The water was led into a silt trap built of stone and from thence to the smaller tank. The larger tank have been fed by a smaller tank. The larger tank have been fed by a channel through the connecting wall of the two ponds. The water has been emptied through a drain leading out from the bottom of the smaller pond. The two ounds are different from each other and also in their various members. the work certainly is an object lesson in achieving unity in divesrity.
Avkana Kalagam Palata-South, Avkana
Aremarkable stone statue of the Buddha 38 ft. 10 inhs. in height and its image house are among the ancient remains at avkana near Kalawewa. The state is believed to be the work of King Dhatusena (455-477 AD). Route: Proceed on the
Samadhi Statue Nuwaragam PalataNorth, Anuradhapura
This statue on the Vatavandana Road is assigned to the 4th or 5th century but may in fact be earlier. At the site has been a Bodhighara and the statue may be one of four images kept originally around the bo-tree.
Nagapokuna Nuwaragam Palata-East, Mihintale
A narrow flight of steps leading towards the left from the position of the Mihindu Saiya gives access to the Naga pokuna. The Mahavansa records that Aggrabodhi I (571-604 AD) ensured a perennial supply of water to the Nagasondi tank referred to. On the rock face here is sculptured a five hooded cobra.
Padaviya Hurulu Palata-North, Padaviya
This site is at the lower end of the Padaviya Tank which in ancient times had the name of Dhanavapi. The remains of the most which gridled the city of Padonnaru near this tank, can be noticed even today. the remains of ancient dagobas, image houses and of other structures can be seen in this city and around it. As a result of the Chola invasion of the 11th century we can notice today the remains of Siva devalas among these Buddhist structures and at higher levels. Within the area circumscrided by the most are ten ancient wells built of stone. Several bronze statues of Hindu gods were recovered in an excavationconducted near this devale. At the site are several Tamil inscriptions of the 10th an 10th centuries. The fragments of large stone figure of a lion wilfully destroyed are found at a point outside the moat.
Kalawewa Kalagam Palata-North, Kalawewa
On the land opposite the Vijitapura temple on the Kekirawa Kalawewa Road are the remains of an ancient structure in which are the head of a Buddha statu, a plain moonstone and a yataragala. All over the land are found remains of other structures.
This site is known as the Uttharama by virtue of the fact that it is situated to the North of the Mediaeval city. As the statues have been carved out of the living rock it is also known as the Galvihara. Whether the colossal Tribhanga statue here with arms crossed on the chest is that of the Buddha or that of the desciple Ananda has become a moot point. In the excavated cave here, known as the Vijjhadhara Guha is a statue in the Samadhi mudra. This cave has been painted upon. Beside the cave on the flat surface of the rock is indited the set of monastic rules promulgated by Parakkramabahu I (1153-1186 AD) and known as the Katikavata.
Atadage Meda and Egoda Pattu, Plonnaruwa
Built by the Minister Deva Senapati for Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AD). The Sacred Tooth Relic would have been housed in the upper storey of this building which appears to have been of wood. the gound floor of this building is an image house in which are found stone images of the Buddha. In the front section of this structure are polished stone pillars which carry sculptures. Among these sculptures are a pair of lovers, a dancing women etc. Adjoining this structure is a slab inscription of the Tamil Velaikkara mercenary soldiers, which records the power for the protection of the Seacred Tooth Relic, and the ceremonies to be performed.
Kirivehera Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
The Kirivehera at Plonnaruwa may be the one said to have been constructed by Subhadra consort of Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD). This is the best preserved ancient dagoba in Sri Lanka.
Rankotvehera Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This has the largest Dagoba in ancient Polonnaruwa, was also named Ruvanvelisaya on inscriptional evidence the dagoba is the work of Nissankamalla (1187-1196 AD). Around the Dagoba are found some chapels. In one of these is the figure of recumbent Buddha. A stone seat by the side of the road near the dagoba has an inscription on it, which indicates that the king sat on this stone on his visit of inspection of the work on the dagoba.
Hetadage Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This is the temple of the Tooth relic built by Nissankamalla (1187-1196 AD0. Its name may either indicate that it housed 60 relics or that it was built in 60 days. Nine steps of the flight of steps which led to the upper story of this building are in position. An inscription of Nissankamalla is found on a wall of the building. The structure had been encircled by a prakara in former times.
Siva Devala Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
The Siva devala near the gate of the inner citadel is a thirteenth century structure built in the Pandya style of architecture. The blocks of granite of which the structure is built are socketted to one another and do not have any motar between them.The sikhara on top of the building had been done in brick.
Vatadage Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This may be the oldest structure at the quadrangle. Although on inscription at the entrance to this structure claims that Nissankammal built it, it may really belong to an early reign. In rows of pillars around the dagoba and the brick wall show that the structure once had a roof. The structure has two terraces. The dagoba is on the upper terrace. The vatadage has four entrances at the four cardinal points. Facing each of these entrances is a statue in Dhyanimudra, placed almost in touch with the Dagoda. Beyond the brick wall is a screen wall of granite. the guardstones of this structure have been elegently carved.
Galpota Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
Adjoining the east wall of the prakara of the Hatadage is a rectangular block of stone with an inscription. This is the Galpota inscription of Nissankamalla (1187-1196 AD). This is the longest known inscription in the island has been written in three sections. On the south face of this block of stone is an inscription which says that the stone was brought from Sagiriya (Mihintale). This inscription was probably roofed over.
Demalamahaseya Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
The Demalamahaseya the largest dagoba at Polonnaruwa was constructed by Parakkramabahu I (1153-1186 AD) with the prisoners he had brought away from his campaign in the Chola country. If the dagoba was continued to a finish in the way it was begun it would have been the largest dagoba any where in the Island. Its lower half has been constructed by cutting a natural hillock to shape and facing it with brick. the original plan of construction has been given up, the top of the dagoba levelled and a small dagoba reared at top.Lankatilaka Vihara Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
Lankatilaka Vihara Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This image house constructed by Parakkramabahu I (1153-1186 AD) was rnovated by Vijayabahu IV (1120-1272 AD). The torso of a large Buddha statue of brick survives at this fane. The image house has had a domical brick roof like the Thuparama. the walls of this structure had been painted on in ancient times. Opposite this structure is a pillared buiding constructed of stone, which may have been a drummer's hall. the well preserved dagoba besibe the Lankatilaka is one constructed by Subbadra, one of the queens of Parakkramabahu.
Sculptured male figure at Potgul Vehera Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
South of the mediaeval city of Polonnaruwa, near the Topawewa tank bund is a large statue sculptured on a rock which according to tradition is the portrait of Parakkramabahu I (1053-1086 AD). Professor Paranavitana thinks that this figure, a work of a very high order, is the figure of some king and that the object carried on the hands is the yoke of a cart which symbolizes Kingship certain others call the figure the representation of a sage. The figure clad in simple dress with a makuta form. To judge from its style the figure belongs to the 12th century. The remains of a dagoda are found opposite the statue.
Tivanka Pilimage Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
The most important building of the Jetavanarama complex of Parakkrabahu I (115301186 AD) is the Tivanka image house. A good number of frescoes is found. The central image in the structure had been constructed in the tribanga pose with the image flexed at three points.
Menik Vehera Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This is a smaller dagoba just outside the north gate of the outer ramparts of the city and to the west of it. The dagoba is reared on a high brick built terrace access to which was gained by a flight of steps on the south side. Inside a small structure which was supported by four pillars is a slab insription of Nissankamall (1187-1196 AD) west of the dagoba and to the north east of it are two image-houses.
Sathmahal Prasadaya Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This structure which is analogous to the structure called Sat Mahapot in the ancient city of Haripunja has been taken to be type of dagoba. Its name arises out of the fact that the building comprises of seven pents progressively diminishing in size. It has originally been octogonal, but has been later altered to rectangular in ground plan.
Dimbulagala Meda and Egoda Pattu, Manampitiya
This site is about 2 miles off the village of Sorivila and the approch road to it turns off at Manampitiya on the Habarana-Batticaloa Road. There is a legend which states that King Pandukabaya (5h century BC) lived in the caves at the site. The Polonnaruwa period painting found here till recently are now no more. Dimbulagala which was a Forest hermitage in mediaeval times was also a centre of learning. This site is also important as the resdent of the late Rev. Dimbulagala Kasyapa Thero, mentioned in the Katikavata of Polonnaruwa.
Medirigiriya Sinhala Pattu, Polonnaruwa
This site which has the remains of an elegant vatadage among other ruins is is situated some 12 miles north east of Higurakgoda. It cannot now be said as to who built the dagoba in its present aspect and atwhat date. The roof of the vatadage was reared on three concentric circles of pillars. Between the circles of pillars were a brick wall and a stone wall made in the manner of the Buddhist railling at Sanchi. Bricks with Brahmi characters of the earliest times were found from the dagoba at the centre of the vatagade. The Vatadage was reached by a flight of steps beginning from a quadrangular extension on the east. The upper part of the structure, however, had four entrances at the fout cardinal points. Facing each of there points is a Buddha statue in the samadhi pose. It is recorded that at one stage of the vatadage was constructed by a Malaya Raja in the day of Agrabodhi (651-666 AD). There has been a hospital here in the 9th and 10th centuries. After the Chola conquest Vijayabahu I (1058-1114 AD) reppaired the structures here. A copy of the treaty was indited on stone at Medirigiriya. Although this original document was not found, a copy of same is found at Sangamu Vohara. To the north-west of the Vatagade is an image house of the 4th century with 5 lime stone images on it.
Somavati Caityaya Meda and Egoda Pattu, Polonnaruwa
The so-called Somavati Vaityaya is close to Sungavila a place about 30 miles removed from Polonnaruwa. Here is a large dagoba built on a plat form which has been despoiled by treasure hunters. About five feet inside the present dagoba are noticed the remains of an earlier dagoba in which the work has been chastely done. The inner dagoba has a fundation while the outer has none. At the four cardinal direcions are lime stone flights of steps for gaining access to the platform. At the foot of each of these flights of of steps is a moonstone of a very early date. On the sides of each flight of steps are two ground stones and two makara balustrods. The retaining wall of this platform is burried about 5 ft. under the earth. A prakara of brick encircles the dagoba and its terrace and the enclosed area are the remains of several structures. On a sherd recovered from the site were a few Brahmi characters of 2nd century AD which included the word RABAVEHERA, presumably the ancient name of the fane. Another inscription from the site gives its full name as PAJINI NAKE ARABA VIHARA.
At a place called Urundukottai in the Island of Velani are the remains of a portuguese Fortress built in the form of a Portuguese Fortress.
Dutch Fort Punakari Tunuthai, Punarin
A person who turns off at Paranthan on the Anuradhapura-Jaffna Road and proceeds to Paranthan would meet a Dutch Fort of Antiquity. This is one of the Dutch Forts, wholly preserved. the structures within the Fort is also well preserved.
This ancient site falls within the land given to the Farm called Vavuniya Intermix Plantation. There is a small dagiba bug into by robbers at this site. Near by are the remains of an ancient pillared building. In this duilbing is a Bodhisathva figure sculptures out of lime stone with its head and hands broken. This image which had stood on a lotus pedistal is about 6 feet in hight. This site situated a mile into the jungal after turnning off at 33rd lime on Madawachchiya-Mannar Road.
This Church is situated in the village of Karisal, on the Mannar-Talaimanna Road., which is 8 miles west of Mannar. Its wooden roof has not survivel while the very thick brick walls remains.
The Mahavansa mentions that a Thera names Saradhu created a dagoba named Miyuguna dagoba after the demise of the Buddha. A nephew of Devanampiyatissa (2470207 BC) named Uda Culabhaya enlarge the dagoba at Mihiyangana. King Dutugemunu (167-137 BC) demolished the Tamil fortress at the site and enlarged the dagoba. The dagoba was rebuilt subsequently by Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AD). The Galpota inscription a document of Nissankamalla (1187-1196 AD) states that this king effected repairs at this dagoba . Parakkramabahu IV (1410-1468 AD) redid the plaster of this dagoba. About 20 years ago when this dagoba was in disrepair an excavation was done there. In the course of this work a relic-chamber of the time Vijayabahu I and a number of valuable objects came to light. The 11th century painted plaster of this rlic-chamberhas been removed and is now on display at the Anuradhapura museum. This dagoba has now been completely renovated.
It is recorded in the Mahavansa that the Ksatriyas of Kajaragama (by which name Kataragama was then known) took part in a function connected with the planting of the Sri Mahabodhi tree at Anuradhapura. Kataragama was the seat of Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AD) for some time after the Chola conquest. Later destroyed it. According to a 5th century inscription at Kataragama the Kirivehera had of the fact that among the bricks of the characters the dagoba appears to be a very old one. A second century inscription at the site refers to an enlargement of the dagoba by bhikshu from Kadahavapi may be the present Kataragama. It is mentioned that king Dappula I (659 AD) who reigned in Ruhuna built a vihara at Katagumuwa. The excavations at Kirivehera disclosed that it has been enlarged of the site was in the early part of the present century. The dagoda was fully restored few years ago under the directions of the Archaeological department.
Sella Kataragama Buttala, Sella Kataragama
This site is a amall inlet in the middle of the Manikganga has the remains of a dagoba and other structures. Here is the torso of a standing Buddha Image. Strewn about the site are potsherds, ancient bricks and pillar stumps. East of this site, on the farther bank of the Manikganga are the remains of a dagoba rensacked by claudestine diggers and other structures. Vestiges of a Prakara which girt the site can be seen here and there.
Buduruwagala Wellawaya, Buduruwagala
At Buduruwagala off Nugayaya on the Tissa-Wellawaya Road is a group of Mahayana figures sculptured on the sheer face of a rock. The central figure is a Buddha statue in the Abhaya Mudra flanked on each side by a Bodhisatva figure with two accompanying figures to each of these. the figures are in bold relief and had earlier been finished with stucc. The figure are dated 8th-10th centuries.
Nagadeepa Vihara Bintenna, Uraniy
The Nagadeepa Vihara is close to Uraniya. At the site are 3 inscriptions and the architectural remains of ancient structures and the fragment of a 6-7th century inscription. In the temple premises are also the remains of an ancient dagoba.
At this site are the remains of a dagoba reared on a square platform and of a structure with stone pillars.
Deegavapi Caityaya Akkarai Pattu, Deegavapiya
There is nothig to prove the tadition that the structure here was reared by King Saddhatissa (137-119 BC). This dagoba is a large one built on a square platform. From its dimensions it would appear that it was an important dagoba of the Digamadulla area. East of the dagoba is a site with ancient remains. A medicine trough at that site seems to connect the remains there with an ancient hospital.
In the 2d century BC there was a kindom called Seru in the area presently called Seruwila. King Kavantissa erected in the kindom of Seru a dagoba in which was enshrined the frontal bone of the Buddha. This is the present Seruvila dagoba. This is the present Seruwila renovated at the debining of the present century. The remains of ancient structures still survive round the dagoda. In the area also are ancient caves. two Buddha figures seated under the hood of the Naga King Mucalinda were found here.
Vatadage Thaddukulam Pattu, Tiriyai
About a mile off a point between the 27th and 28th mile posts on the Trincomalee-Puimuddai Road is a Vatadage located on a hill to the west of the viiage of Tiriyai. A flight of steps on the south scarf of the hill gives access to its summit. the summit of the hill has been levelled to rear a small dagoba on it. Later this dagoba has been enlarged. Still later, about the 8th century AD the dagoba has been encircled by a vatadage. The platform of the vatadage is circular. Around the dagoba are two concentric circles of pillars. At the adge of the dagoba platform is a stone screen wall of about 6ft. in hight. At intervals on this wall are holes for pillars. Four flights of steps from the four main directions led to the dagoba. At the four corners round the dagoba are flower alters. Inner cave on this hill is a pre-chistian inscription. On a boulder here is an eight century Sanscrit nscription which records a contemporary legend to the effect that the dagoba is the Girihandu dagoba built by the trading brothers Tapassu and Bhalluka. here also are the reains of an image house and of other structures.
Old Dutch Building at Nilaweli Kaddukulam Pattu, Neelaveliya
There is a two storied Dutch building in the village of Nilawali on the Trincomalee-Kuchchveli Road. This building the roof of which had crumbled, has now been conserved by the Archaeological Department.
Velgam Vehera Kaddukumal Pattu-North, Periyakulam
This site is some six miles on the road branching northwards near the 6th mile on the Trincomalee-Horowpotana Road. The cholas who gave protection to the site had called it Rajarajaperumpalli. The older name of the site, however, was Velgam vehera. In an area enclosed by a prakara are the remains of several image houses and of a dagoba. In one of these are the remains of a recumbent Buddha statue of brick. The statues in the other image houses had been of stone. the dagoba here stands on a square pavement. On the hill overlooking this site are also the remains of a dagoba. On a rock in this hill is the inscription of a commander named Abhaya in the reign of Bhatiya Tissa II (142-168 AD) which shows that a vihara of that date at the site had the name of Abhagara
Sri Agbho Rajamaha Vihara Tampalakaman Pattu, Gantalawa, Tissapura
A site in tract 8 of the Mullipatana Colony. here are the remains of a small ruined dagoba built on a rectangular terrace. hard by are a 4 1/2 feet fragment of a standing Buddha statue and some pieces of the figure of some God.
Veherakanda Koddiyar Pattu, North Mahaveli Forest Reserve
At this site situated inside the thick forest is a small dagoba bug into by thieves. Close by are the remains of an image house where on a slab of stone 6 feet by 2 feet, is an inscription. In the neighbourhood is an asana stone.
Ina cave on this hill is an inscription of the 2nd century BC meandering foot path now gives access to the summit. At the summit are a large pond and the remains of some structures. All round the summit is a cyclopean wall. This may have been a fortress of Kings or at least of local rulers.
Jayawardenapura-Kotte was the capital of Sri Lanka at the time of the arrival of the Portuguess. The fortress at Kotte was erected by the Minister Alakeswara during the reign of Vickremabahu III (1356-1370 AD). From that time Kotte was the capital of the island for about two centuries. The first king who made Kotte his capital was Parakkramabahu IV (1410-1467 AD). After Don Juvan Dharmapala this city fell into the hands of the Portuguese who destroyed the buildings in the city. A beautiful King's Palace and a temple of the Scred Tooth had been at the city. The rampart wall and the moat which girt the city once can be noticed in places here and there.
Dutch Church in Wolfendhal Street Colombo Town, Colombo
This Dutch Church was constructed in 1749 at a site where there was a Portuguese church originally. the church was built under the auspices of the Dutch East India Company. Inside the church is a pew for the utch Givernor. The church is a large building with thick walls. the remains of five Dutch Governors and their wives originally interred in the ruined church in the Fort of Colombo were re-interred here.
St. Peter's church-Colombo Fort Colombo Town. Colombo Fort
This is an old building in front of the Colombo Harbour. This structure with thick walls and large windows was the residence of the Dutch Governors during the Dutch occupation. Meetings of the Council of State had been held in this building during the time. During the early days of the tenure of Governor North too this was a state building. The buildig was converted to a church in 1804. the verandah with high columns was added to the structure in the early days of the British.
Dutch Fort Alutkuru Korale, Negombo
The original Portuguese Fort at negombo was ravaged in the course of the engagement between the Portuguese and the Dutch, but was rebuilt on an improved scale by the Dutch. Of this Fort what now remains is only its arched gateway which bears on it the date AD 1678. A latin inscription in which accurs the name of Isaac Augustin Ramp who was the Dutch Governor of the island from 1716-1723 was found hear the gateway. the inscription also records that the Fort of Negombo was one of the major ports wrested by the Dutch East India Company from the hands of the Portuguese. Opposite the Fort i an ancient Dutch cemetary where there are 9 monuments of the Dutch period.
At this vihara are found a late Kandy period image house with frescoes and a 4th century inscription of Kirti Sri Meghavarna
The Tooth Relic of the Buddha is enshrined here. This shrine was built by King Vimaladharma uriya in 17th century when Kandy was the capital of Ceylon. King Weeraprakkrama Narendrasinha rebuilt the temple reducing it from three stories to two stories. the last king of Ceylon, Sri Wickremarajasinha added the OCTAGON to the shrine and built the moat at its boundary. As the tooth relic was considered the paladium of royalty the Temple of the Tooth was always built beside the King's place. The Temple of the tooth has painting of the Kandy period on it.
Natha Devala Kandy Town, Kandy Town
This 14th century devala sited to the west of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth is built on a high land surrounded by the stone wall. On the eastern side of the wall is a flight of steps giving access to the high land. Apart from the Devala, in these premises is a small dagoba, a Bodhi tree, and an image house, the last of which is notof much antiquity. There is a tradition that the bowl relic is enshrined in the dagoba. The stone structure built in Dravidian style may be the oldest structure in Kandy. It has a dagoba shaped sikhara. the ceromonies of naming the King and of handing the Royal sword to the King were held in this dulding during the time of Kandy Kings.
Magulmaduwa Kandy Town, Kandy Twon
The wooden construction near the Tooth relic temple at Kandy in which the Supreme Court sessions are held is the ancient Audian hall. The work on this building ommenced in 1784 during the reing of King Rajadhi Rajasinha but could not be completed before the british came into possession of Kandy. The building is a spacious hall having wooden pillars rising from a stereobate of stone. The wodden pillars are capped by carved wooden brackets. The wooden pillars and beams are adorned by a variety of carvings. The rafters have their undersides cut into shapely curves. The roof has a steep gradient and is clad with flat tiles. the structure is an open hall sans wall. The had be designed by an architect named Devendra Mulachari. This is the only building of its type from the Kandy period.
Pthini Dewala Kandy Town, Kandy Town
This Devala situated to the North West of the temple of the Tooth Relic at Kandy is a rectangular building of modest dimensions reared on a high stone sylobate. The structure is in four sections. The icon of the god faces the east.
Gatambe Kandy Town, kandy Town
The villag of Getambe i near the 69th mile on kandy-Kadugannawa Road. the ancient bo-tree at the site is beside the road. The water-cutting ceremony at the end of the Kandy Esala perahera is done near the encient ferry on the Mahaveli Ganga at Getambe. A beautiful structure was reared in the reign of Wimaladharmasuriya II (1590-1620 AD) on the Sabath prescincts (Uposatha seema) here.
Kataragama Devala Kandt Town, Kandy Town
Thi devala built in the Kandyan Tradition of achitecture is in the heart of the Municipal area of kandy. At the enterance to the devala is a tile-clad vahalkada. the rectangular devala is reared on a high platform and has a verandah all around it. The old wooden pillars capped with carved brackets have been renovated in later times. the sanctum of the devala is at its western end. Over the sanctum is a rectangular mandapa with tiles. Around the mandapa is a narrow verandah with wooden posts. Mandapa was built with the sole purpose of heighteing the beauty of the structure.
Vishnu Devala Kandy Town, Kandy Town
This is a Hindu Devala built in the kandyan style of arcitecture, situated in the municipality of kandy. The sanctum of the devala rises on a stereobate of stone. Over the sanctum is a roofed mandapa around which is a verandah with wooden pillars. As there is no provision for access to the mandapa it is clear that this part of the structure was reared solely for scenic effect. the devarajapetikada (paited board), the paraphanalia of the God Vishnu from the Sandal wood icon of the God Vishnu from the Alutnuwara devala have been brought to this devala. The other items barring the icon of the God were later renoved to Hanguranketa.
Embekke Devala Udu Nuwara and Yati Nuwara, Embekke
To reach the vilage of Embekke one has to proceed on the Kandy-Gampola Road, turn off at Peradeniya junction and proceed 4 miles on the Dewulagala Vatadeniya Road. Although the local tradition holds that the devale was bult in the 14th century it is difficult to belived that the structure is older than the 17th century. The pillars in the digge of the devale and other architectural members are exquisitely carved. Of all the wooden structures of the Kandy period this can be taken to be the most attractive. we can form an idea of the roofs of the Anuradhapura period by a study of the roof of this building. The upper story of the sanctum is a fictitionsstory without an upper floor. the four walls of this section are reached on four wooden beams. the timber of the roof are of massive properations some of them being as long as 60 ft.
King's Palace Kandy Town, kandy Town
The place building of Sri Wickrema Rajasinha near the Temple of the Tooth at Kandyis a good example of a King's palace of the Kandy period. During the British Administration the building was used as the rsidence of the chief Government Official of the District. Originally on the walls of the main part of the building were stucco figures of Chowre bearing women of nearly humean size, of lions and geese, and terracotta figures of lions and geese. These beautiful figures had been covered by successing layers of lime wash applied during the British Administration. The layers of lime-wash have been removed and some of the figures have been revived . the roof of this building is in the Dutch style.
A religious establishement founded in the reign of King Valagambahu (104 BC and 89-77 BC). It was here that the fourth Buddhist convecation was held and the Buddhist religious works were reduced to writing for the first time. At the summit of the rock is a dagoba. On the living rock the two sacred feet symbols are carved. Four of the 10 drip-ledged caves here have inscription on them. In one of a painting probably of the Kandyan period is preserved. All things at this site bar a makara thorana of the Kandy period have been restored. Some of the caves here bear slight traces or painted plaster.
Dambulla Rajamaha Viharaya Dambulla, Dambulla
This vihara known in ancient times as the Jambukolalena vihara is situated on top of the rock of Dambulla. Here are cave inscriptions of the 2nd century BC. Inside several dripledged caves here image houses have been constructed. The structures here have been renovated by Vijayabahu (1055-1110 AD). According to an inscription of Nissankamalla at the site that king has gilded the statues here and named the site the Rangiri Bambulla. The last renovations here were effected by King Kirtisiri Rajasinha of kandy. Inside the viharaa are many seated, standing and recumdent Buddha statues and statues of gods. On the wlls of the image houses are paintings. Most of the images and paintings belong to the Kandy period.
Sigiriya Dambulla, Sigiriya
The remains of Sigiriya constructed by King Kasapa I (437-491 AD) whom the Mahawansa introduces as a prricide, lie five miles off Inamaluwa on the Dambull-Habarana Road. On the west of the rock are ponds, the remains of summer palaces and other structures, and the first part of the ancient road which led to the summit. The areas of land to the east and to the west of the rock had been girt by ramparts. The moats and the ramparts of the westrn side have been conserved in some measure. The whole area of land on the summit of the rock consisting of some three acres is coverd by the remains of buildings, ponds, wells etc. In the past the entire western face of the rock had been covered with plaster and painted upon, but only those paintings in two sheltered pockets now survive. The last lap of the ancient path to the summit had been through the mouth of a lion, but at precent only parts of the lion's legs and some of the lime stone steps from inside the lion's mouth survive. In the mirror wall surviving about the middle of the height of the rock are graffite dated between the 5th and 13th century AD. About 700 of these have been copied and read.
Gedige at Nalanda Dambulla, Nalanda
This monument is in the midst of a tract of fields in the village of Nalanda on the Matale-Dambulla Road. Beside this stone structure reared in the Pallawa style of architecture are the remains of a dagoba. Here are some sculpture reminiscent of those at the Siva devala, Polonnaruwa. The structure is a Tantric Buddhist structure of the 8th century. the architectural members of buildings found scattered at the site indicate that there have been other structures here. There were two fragments of a 9th century inscription here. the remains of a prakara which once encircled the gedige and the dagoba can be noticed.
Veheragala Laggala, Oggamuwa, Laggala
On the rock, on the slope of the hill at this site are the remains of a small dagoba and several mounds with pillars on them. On the east slope of the hill is an inscription.
This area is situated in the middle of the Hanguranketa town. Here are a Vishnu devala and a Pattini devala built in the Kandy period at the base of the Vishnu devala is a frieze of sculptured stick-dancers. On the walls of the Pattini devala are sculptures depicting subjects such as two chowri bearers, an elephant with mounted mahaout, two stick-dancers etc. Behind the Vishnu devala is a stone with the sculpture of the Panchanarigetaya. Both these devalas have been renovated at a later day. In this area are also a priests' residence (Sanghavasa) and two Vihara mandira built in 1830. At the four ends of the larger of there Vihara Mandira are four image houses and at its centre a vatadage. In this Vihara mandira are also panitings drawn in 1830. For one of the doors of this vihara is a stone door frame with delicate carvings.
This site is at the 10th mile o the Kurunegala-Rambodagalla Road. This is the Rajatalen vihara established by Amanda gamini Abaya (19 - 20 AD), where inscriptions of 2nd century BC to 8th century AD are found. In the repmises are remains which range between the 12th to the 13th centuries. At present here are two units namely the Udavihara and Meda vihara . In both are seated and standing Buddha figures and figures of Gods. In the meda vihara is also a recumbent Buddha statue. In both viharas are paintings. The icons and paintings belong to the Kandy times. South of the Meda vihara is a small image house which has a door frame of the Kandy period. The carvings on the door had brrn of ivery inlay.
Kebellelena Hiriyala Pattu, Egodagama
This vihara located at the foot of a hillock is near the 15th mile on the Ibbagamuwa-Moragollagama Road. In a large dripledged cave on the escarpment of the hillock is a cave temple of the kandy period. the cave howeyer has pre christian instriptions. A flight of steps made of rubble leads from the base of the hillock to the cave temple. Inside the cave are a large recumbent Buddha statue, a seated Buddha statue and several standing Buddha statues. This cave has been prepared by the construction of clay walls which have paintings of the Birth stories of the Buddha on their inner face. At the base of the hillock are the remains of a brick built dagoba. The Yupa stone of this dagoba is still in situ.
Wellagala Devamedi Hatpattuwa, Wellagala
Painting and Buddha statues of the Kandy period are found in this ancient cave temple. The recumbent statue at this temple is 32 cubits in lenght. The paintings here are well preserved. the dagoba inside the cave at this site is very important for the history of architecture.
Bisokotuwa - Panduwas Nuwara Devamedi Hathpattu, Kottampitiya
In the land adjoining the modern temple at Panduwas Nuwara is a circular eacth embankment. remains of brick structures are found outside as well as withing the embarkment. This embankment which appears to have been constructed by Parakkramabahu I in the 12th century was a model of the universe in miniature according to Professor Paranavitana. He thinks that the Brahamins peformed certain situals here in order to proclaim Parakkramabahu a universal monarch.
Panduwas Nuwara Devamedhi Hathpattu, Kottampitiya
The remains of panduwas Nuwara lie close to the Kotampitiya junction at the 22nd mile on the Chilaw-Wariyapola Road. There is no evidence whatsoever to support the tradition that King Panduwasdev lived here. The capital of the southern principality was here when Parakkramabahu was the sub king of the territory. The remains of his place survive here within a mat and a brick duilt rampart. The upper story of this brick built palace may have been of wooden construction. The main part of the palace is surrounded by store houses. in front of the structure is a large hall within which is a stone seat of Nissankamalla 91187-1196 AD) with an inscription on it. The document recorded that on his way back from Adam's peak the king viewed acted plays, seated on this stone seat. At the north west corner of the palace is a lavatory. Behind the palace is an ancient pond with stone retained sides. outside the ramparts which contain the palace, on the south east is an ancient dagoba built on a high pavement.
Yapahuwa Vanni Hath Pattu - Maho, Yapahuwa
Yapahuwa which was the seat of Government in the 13th century is situated 3 miles east of Maho. The rock here which rises some 300 ft. above the surrounding land was first utilized for porposes of war by the General Subha. From here he could check the southward advance of Magha's (1272-1236 AD) forces. Buvanekabahu I (1272-1284 AD) made Yapahuwa his capital. Subsequently the Tooth Relic which was at Dambadeniya was transferred to Yapahuwa. The southern and south eastern parts of the land at the base of the rock are protected by two moats and ramparts. Within the fortifications are the remains of many amcient structures. The stone stairway on a plateau at the base of the rock is a very impressive structure and contains beautiful sculptures. The two elaborate stone windows were found here. This structure in Pandyan style of architecture is believed to heve pertained to the Temple of the Tooth relic here. On the north east in land outside the fortification are the remains of a Buddhist fane. Among these is an image house with unusual architectural features.
At Tonigala in the Puttalam District of North central Province are two pre Chistian Brahmi inscriptions. One of these has been published in Epigraphia Zeylanica Volume III. The remains of a small Dagoba built of rubble noticed at the site. Route to the Tonilaga is between 39th and 40th miles on Puttalam-Anamaduwa Road.
This church situated within the Dutch Fort, Galle wad constructed within the period AD 1752-1754. According to the tradition this church was built by the wife of the Dutch Commander Caspares de Jong at the spot where there was earlier a Portuguese convent. This is perhaps the most characteristically Dutch Church in Ceylon. The belfry which belongs to this church is on the other side of the road.
Dutch Fort Galle Town, Galle
The encient fortress at galle which was used as a fortified harbour by the Portugueses was converted to a fortress by the Dutch. A good deal of structures surviving the Dutch period are found within the fortress. these structures give us an idea of the maritime arhitecture of Sri Lanka during the 17th centuray.
TotagamuwaVihara and Natha Devala Vellaboda Pattu, telwatta
This vihara is situated about 3 miles North of Hikkaduwa and close to the Colombo-Galle Road. The site at which the great savant the Maha thera Sri Rahula ived was very famous as a seat of learning in the15th centuray. the object of antiquity were plundered or destroyed by the Portuguese time and again. Painting done in the old tradition are found in the viharage at this site constructed in 1805. There is also an ancient Natha devala at the site.
This fortress is in a delta of land bounded on one side by the Nilwala Ganga and on the other by the sea. the ramparts here ore built of coral and of stone. An ancient gate way gives access to the Fort. King Dharmapala built a Fort at Matara in 1550 AD with the assistance of the Portuguese, but the present Fortress was built in 1645 by the Dutch.
Star Fort Wellaboda Pattu, Matara Town
This Dutch Fort in the shape of a star, was built in 1762-1765 by Baron Van Eek to augment the defences of the Dutch Fort at Matara. This fort is girt by two ramparts and a moat. Over the gate of the Fort is the Dutch Coat of arms. The building within the fort is of a later date.
Vihara and Devala of Upulvan at Dondara Kadawat Satara, Dondara
This vihara is in the township of Dondara on the Matara-Tissamaharama Road. Although the history of the site goes back to the 6th century the ancient structures here were destroyed by the Portuguese. At the vihara premises are ancient stone pillars and other architectural remains. Near the Bodhi tree here is a pillar inscription of the ninth century. Near the devala of the god Upulvan is a slab incription of Parakkramabahu II (1236-1270 AD) according to which the port at the spot was known as Tendiratota. The inscription lays down the texes to be levied at the port.
The village of Kirinda is some 6 miles off the Tissamaharama bazaar. The ancient site is on an eminence strewn with boulders situated beside the sea. A small dagoba on one of the boulders at the site has been repaired recently. At the site are several dripledged caves and a rock inscription in verse belonging to the 1st century BC> This instription records that a sub-King Naga who held false belifs was converted to Buddhism at the Vihara at the site. The sub-King Naga later became King Mahadathika Mahanaga. There is a tradition that Viharamahadevi was brought ashore at this place. There, however, is nothing to support the tradition.
Situlpavva Magam Pattu, Ruhuna National Park
This is the cittalapabbata vihara founded by the king Kawantissa in the 2nd century BC. An instription at the site recorded that King Mahallaka Naga built a dagoba here in the 1st century. A largenumber of dripledged caves are also found here. In most of there are incriptions of the 2nd and 1st century BC. In ancient time this has been an important seat of learning. At the site are two dagobas known as the greater Situlpavva dagoba and the smaller Situlpavva dagoba rspectively. Of these the larger has been renovated recently. Both dagobas are built on rock hummocks. On the southern scarp of the hill on which the larger dagoba is are several monastic buildings. On the eastern scarp is a large cave. In ancient times there has been an image house. This has been renovated recently. There have been painting inside this cave, of which traces can be found to this date below the dripledge. Opposite this cave are the remains of two pillared image houses. In one these are two icons of Budhisatvas, of which one is headless. the other figure is well preserved. This is one of the best figures of the type in Sri Lanka. here also are seen fragments of a Buddha statue of marble built in the Amaravati style.
Tissamaharama Dagoba Magam Pattu, Tissamaharamaya
This dagoba one of the largets in Ruhunu is situated in the twon of Tissamaharamaya. It has been renovated in the present century. The dagoba is said to have been built by King Kavantissa in the 2nd century BC. The Silapasana Pirivena has been at this site. In an inscription of Maha Naga (406-428 AD) the site is named Mahagama Rajamaha Vihara. In an inscription of Dappula IV (927 AD) the site is known as Maha Vehera.
This Mahasaman Devale is near the 41st mile on the Ratnapura-Panadura Road. There would have been an ancient devale at this site. The Portuguese who overran this area in the 15th century have destroyed the sacred buildings at the site. Realizing the etrategic impotance of the site they built a fortress there, for which purpose the land here wa raised up by filling. There are two platforms here. The lower platform is gained through two Vahalkadas on the east and the south. A flight of steps on the eastern side provides access from the lower platform to the upper platform. Prakara walls around the platform are clad at top with tiles. Opposite the flight of steps leading to the upper terrace is the santi maduwa of the devala which is a pillared structure provided with dwarf on either side. Openings are provided on this dwarf wall for obtaining access to the image house on the north and to the Pattini devala on the south. The dogge has wooden posts. the three storied structure at the end of the digge is known as the palace. To one who looks at it from afar the palace looks like a dagoba. The vihara here is built ona high stereobate and is surrounded by a varandas. it has aecient paintings. there is an ancient bo-tree south of the flight of steps leading to the uppe terrace. In the devala prmises is a sculptured stone of the Potuguese period which portrays a Portuguese General Simao Pinnao with brandished sword trampling a Sinhalese soldier. On the slab is a Portuguese instription which is a short description of the Portuguese General.
This devala is about 1 1/2 mile east of the Manikkawa junction on the Hingula-Maliyadda Road. The Devarajapetikada board with the painting of god vishnu which King Parakkramabahu II (1236-1270 AD) caused to be brought down from Dondara had been depositted in the Vishnu Devala which was here. After this sacred object was removed to the Vishnu Devala at kandy the devala here became dedicated to the gods Dedimulda Bandara and Malwatta Bandara. The present devala was erected by the Pilimatalawwe Adigari. The Makara Torana over the door of one of the rooms of the devala is unique. The top most feature of the devala is a roofed Mandapa. Beside the Dedimulda devala are the Malwatte Banara devala and the Galekepu devala. Behind the alut devala is the ancient Vishnu devala and the site of the old viharage. Behind it are some old pillars a dogoba and a bo-tree terrace. At the site also are two worn out slab insriptions of Vickramabahu III (1357-1374 AD). A boulder at the point of entrance to the devala terrace was removed after the construction of the devala. A description of this work appears in the Galakappu sahalla.