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Pothgul Viharaya

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Gazing at Pothgul Viharaya, one might wonder about the secrets held within these aged walls. Pothgul Viharaya translates to “place to store books”. It stands as the oldest library complex in Sri Lanka. King Parakramabahu the Great, who reigned from 1153 to 1185 AD, originally commissioned its construction. Later, Queen Chandrawathi, one of his consorts, oversaw its renovation. The design is unique. A square platform forms its base. In the center, a circular brick structure, likely the main library, rises up. Even the roof of this central structure seems to have been crafted from brick. Four smaller stupas mark the corners of the platform, adding to the mystical aura. Around this central area, the remains of other buildings hint at the lives once lived here. These were likely the awasa, or residential cells for the monks. The architecture of Pothgul Viharaya echoes the styles found in ancient Cambodian temples. It’s easy to imagine King Parakramabahu, seated within the circular library, listening intently as his teacher recounted the Jataka tales of the Buddha. The very air seems to whisper stories of ancient wisdom and royal patronage. Pothgul Viharaya invites us to step back in time. We can ponder the countless books and scrolls that once graced its shelves, a testament to a rich scholarly tradition.

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