The Sacred Quadrangle
Overview
This can be called the "heart" of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. In the past, the tooth relic and the bowl relic of the Buddha were enshrined in this area. It is called the "Quadrangle" in English because it is located on a slightly elevated square area north of the Royal Palace.
Within this small area, many sacred buildings built by different kings at different times are located very close to each other. What is special here is that Hindu, Cambodian and local architectural features can be seen in one place. Many of the most artistic and intricate carvings in Polonnaruwa are found here.
What can we do?
There are many things to see inside this courtyard:
- Vatadage: This is the most beautiful building in Polonnaruwa. It is circular in shape and has a small stupa in the center and four Buddha statues. The moonstones and the guard stones are very impressive.
- Nissanka Latha Mandapaya: A very beautiful structure with lotus stalk pillars.
- Gal Pota / Stone Book: This is the largest stone inscription in Sri Lanka, measuring 26 feet long and 4 feet wide. It contains the details of King Nissanka Malla.
- Satmahal Prasada: This is a seven-story, pyramid-shaped building that shows Cambodian or Thai influence.
- Hatadage and Atadage: Two old palaces where the Tooth Relic was enshrined.
Which session is best for travel?
- Time: It is very important to go between 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM or after 4:00 PM.
- Warning: You must take off your shoes when entering here. The sand and stone ground here gets very hot in the afternoon, making it very difficult to walk.
- Pro Tip: Therefore, be sure to bring a set of thick socks. Then you can easily watch without feeling the heat.
How long to spend for a visit?
- Duration: It will take at least one hour to thoroughly view all the monuments here and read the descriptions.
How can we arrive?
- Location: Located north of the Royal Palace complex. A few minutes' walk from Parakramabahu Palace.