Nissanka Latha Manadapaya – a unique structure of yesteryear – By Arundathie Abeysinghe Constructed during the reign of King Nissanka Malla (1187-1196) and named after him as Nissanka Latha Manadapaya *(Mandapaya meaning pavilion), this extraordinary unique structure is located near the western entrance of the *Dalada Maluwa quadrangle of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. *Polonnaruwa region comprises the oldest and most sacred Buddhist and historical monuments. Hence, the monument is considered as significant as it showcases how Buddhism influenced society during the *Polonnaruwa Kingdom. Some archaeologists are of the view that the Complex is also known as the ‘King’s Court.’ The structure is an elevated stone platform with several stone columns carved exquisitely and this type of columns are not found anywhere else in the country. These stone columns are not straight unlike most stone columns in many historic sites in Sri Lanka. These columns are curved ...
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Extraordinary ruins of Kadurugoda Temple in the Northern Province By Arundathie Abeysinghe Located approximately 10 kilometers from Jaffna City, Kadurugoda Temple and Ruins are found on the outskirts of Jaffna city in Kantarodai. The Temple and ruins are one of the few remaining Buddhist legacies in the Northern province. In 1917, Jaffna Magistrate Paul E. Peiris reported that bricks from the location of the Temple were being carried away in cart loads by residents in the locale to construct houses. Magistrate Peiris has documented approximately 60 gray coral-stone dagobas (stupas) at the site. Yet, at present there are approximately 20 stupas sprawled across an acre of open land under palmyrah trees (Borassus flabellifer). According to locals, the name “Kadurugoda” had derived from “Kandavurugoda” (in Sinhala meaning location of a military camp) which was adopted as “Kantarodai” by the resident Tamil population of the locale. A unique feature of this temple ...
