Polonnaruwa Ancient City North Central Province Sri Lanka

The ascendancy of Polonnaruwa as a pivotal administrative and religious center commenced with the Chola conquest in the early 11th century CE, when it was strategically renamed Jananathamangalam. During this period, the Chola Dynasty profoundly reshaped the urban landscape, introducing distinct Dravidian architectural elements and establishing robust Shaivite worship, exemplified by the enduring Siva Devalaya No. 1. This temple, dedicated to Bhagavan Shiva, stands as a tangible testament to the significant transmission of South Indian Hindu traditions to the island, reflecting the imperial reach and cultural imprints of the Chola empire on Sri Lankan soil before the resurgence of Sinhalese sovereignty.

Following the Chola withdrawal, King Vijayabahu I liberated the island and re-established Sinhalese rule, formally making Polonnaruwa his capital in the mid-11th century, initiating a period of remarkable indigenous development. The city reached its zenith under King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 CE), whose reign marked an unparalleled era of hydraulic engineering and monumental construction. His vision led to the creation of the colossal Parakrama Samudra, an intricate irrigation network, and the erection of iconic structures like the Gal Vihara and the Lankatilaka Vihara, which collectively transformed Polonnaruwa into a sophisticated urban marvel and a spiritual heartland, unifying the island under a powerful, centralized administration.

Polonnaruwa became the second capital of Sri Lanka in the 11th century CE. The city served as capital until the 13th century CE. The city was a major center of Buddhist and Hindu worship. The site was inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List. Ongoing archaeological research and conservation efforts continue. ([1][2])

This magnificent structure was built during the Chola Period period, representing the architectural excellence of its time.

Chola architecture style, Sri Lankan Medieval architecture style, Indo-Buddhist architecture style, Indo-Hindu architecture style

Polonnaruwa showcases a synthesis of sophisticated building techniques, notably the precise dry masonry for granite plinths and walls, often interlocked without mortar for structural integrity. Corbelled arch and vaulting techniques were extensively employed, particularly in brick structures, allowing for significant spans without true arches. Intricate stucco and plasterwork, often applied over brick, allowed for detailed sculptural ornamentation, a hallmark of Indo-Buddhist and Hindu styles. Timber joinery, though less preserved, was vital for complex roof structures and decorative elements, demonstrating advanced carpentry skills for the period. Water-tight construction was also critical for reservoirs and bathing ponds.

The construction of Polonnaruwa's monumental structures involved a highly organized, labor-intensive process. Builders meticulously quarried granite and other stone, then dressed blocks to precise dimensions using chisels and hammers. Large stone elements were likely moved and lifted into place using ramps, rollers, and leverage systems, a common practice for heavy masonry in the region. Brick structures followed a systematic laying sequence, often utilizing a lime mortar for robust bonding. Timber elements, crucial for roofing and decorative features, were cut and joined with skilled carpentry. The entire process demanded sophisticated planning, a hierarchical workforce, and a deep understanding of material properties.

ग्रॅनाइट - Grॅnā'iṭa (Granite), ईंट - Īṇṭa (Brick), चूना - Chunā (Lime Mortar), लोहा - Lohā (Iron), काष्ठ - Kāshtha (Wood), बलुआ पत्थर - Baluā Patthar (Sandstone), कंकड़ - Kankar (Kankar), सुरखी - Surkhi (Brick Dust)

The design shows influences from: Indian Chola Architecture, Indian Buddhist Architecture, Indian Hindu Architecture, Indian Urban Planning, Sri Lankan Medieval Architecture

Conservation Status: Excellent; well-preserved; ongoing conservation; UNESCO protection. ([1][2])

Archaeological excavations, documentation, structural restoration, and ongoing conservation. ([1][2])

Potential threats include environmental factors and tourism pressure. Managed through UNESCO protection and ongoing conservation efforts. ([1][2])

Archaeological excavations; documentation; structural restoration; ongoing conservation. ([1][2])

The structural system at Polonnaruwa primarily relies on massive load-bearing masonry. Thick granite and brick walls form the primary vertical elements, efficiently transferring compressive loads from upper stories and roofs directly to the foundations. Columns and lintels, often carved from single granite blocks, define openings and support horizontal spans. Corbelled construction, where successive courses project slightly beyond the one below, created stable, albeit limited, spans for roofs and doorways. Timber roof trusses, now largely lost, would have provided the necessary structural framework for wider spans, distributing loads evenly across the robust masonry walls and supporting heavy tile coverings.

Foundations for Polonnaruwa's substantial masonry structures were engineered for stability on varied ground conditions. Typically, shallow trench foundations were excavated, often extending to compacted earth or, where available, directly onto bedrock. These trenches were then filled with rubble and coarse aggregate, forming a stable base. Over this, meticulously laid courses of dressed stone, often granite or laterite, created a robust plinth. This plinth served to distribute the immense loads from the superstructure evenly across a wider area, preventing differential settlement and ensuring the long-term integrity of the heavy brick and stone walls above. Lime mortar was used to bond these foundation courses.

Traditional Indian Chola and Buddhist urban planning and architectural techniques were transmitted to Sri Lanka and adapted to local conditions. ([1][2])

Polonnaruwa Ancient City: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Daily.

Free for all visitors.

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