MOST STRIKING FEATURES

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the World Heritage Site remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in Sri Lanka, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the ancient Singhalese people. The ruins and temples are within a much more compact area, and also in better condition.

According to the Mahavamsa, King Upatissa I built the reservoir called Topa Wewa at Polonnaruwa in the 4th century AD. That was the first time the ancient chronicle Mahavamsa mentioned Polonnaruwa. It was functioned as a temporary administration centre from around the 7th century AD due to internal revolts and South Indian invasions. In 1017 AD the entire island came under the control of South India and ruled the country for the next 37 years. South Indian rulers moved the capital city from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa after considering the vulnerably for attacks from both native Sinhalese and other South Indian kingdoms. They nominated Polonnaruwa as “Jananathapuram”.

The great Vijayabahu I defeated the South Indian king and recaptured the whole island. However, his coronation took place at Anuradhapura, he chose Polonnaruwa, as the new capital of the country eventually became the second capital of ancient Sri Lanka.