Polonnaruwa

WHAT

Polonnaruwa is an ancient city. It was the second capital of Sri Lanka from the 12th century AD after the downfall of Anuradhapura and today it is the second largest city in the North Central Province. Vijayabahu's victory over the Chola invaders is considered important, although the real hero of Polonnaruwa is actually Parakramabahu I. His reign is considered the Golden Age of Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa is frequently visited and popular with travellers because of its well-preserved ancient dagobas, Buddha statues, Moon-stones, ancient palaces, Parakrama Samudra (reservoir), gardens and other historical sites. Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I in 1070. The capital was flourishing for nearly two centuries. During this time, Buddhism played a strong role in the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, with the influence of the South Indian culture. There were quite many Sinhala kings, who reigned the kingdom, especially King Parakramabahu I who was very successful, and Kinwas Veryg Nissanka Malla, Vijayabahu II, Wickramabahu II and Dharmashoka. Each of them made his contribution to the history of Polonnaruwa by building dagobas, palaces and constructing irrigation systems for ensuring water supply in the dry zone and helping the country agriculture.