Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya

Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya is the oldest library complex in Sri Lanka. It was built by King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD) and renewed by Queen Chandrawathi. It has a circular structure in the middle, four stupas in the four corners of the floor, and the residential cells, where monks lived (Awasa). The design of Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya is said to be similar to the design of the oldest temples in Cambodia. Another interesting artifact is the statue placed at the north of this temple, which is 3.5 meters high. The information about the statue is vague; some believe it’s the statue of King Parakramabahu I and others that it’s the statue of Rishi Pulasthi.