Polonnaruwa 02

                                  

Around this city, several massive irrigation tanks were built by the kings.  Those built by King Parakramabaku are noteworthy.  These were used to feed the large number of people living in Polonnaruwa and for farming in the surrounding vast area.  Even after about 1000 years these ponds are still in use.  The city is home to several massive Buddhist temples and Hindu temples.

 After being abandoned, ruined, forested and forgotten, the ruins of this ancient city were uncovered by archaeologists in the late 19th century.  The ruins of palaces, mansions, temples, residences for Buddhist monks, hospitals, travelers' hostels, and ornamental lakes, etc., testify to the prosperity of the city at that time.