Polonnaruwa
This city was the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka after Anuradhapura and is located about 100 kilometers to the south east. Its prominence as the capital lasted for about 300yers, during which a number of major Buddha structures were made but while they were built in later age, these structure were laser in size and magnificent to those of more ancient times. Nonetheless, most of these are beautiful and significant.
By the 13th century polonanruwa became increasingly vulnerable attacks on the north by Indian invaders, and almost destroyed by decades of invasions and civil wars. Subsequence king gradually shifted their capitals towards the south west and l Like Anuradhpura before it, Polonnaruwa was eventually abounded this ancient city is designated a world heritage site by UNSCO.
Some of the finest Buddha statutes’ in Sri Lanka is found in the gal Vihara temple, where four Buddha images are carved from the face of single granite rock. There is a very impressive 5 meter high seated image and next to it is similar but much smaller one in a recess. On a rock between the recess and the standing images an inscription describing Prakramabahu’s efforts to reform the Sangaha in 1165.
Next is a large standing image about 7 meters tall. Because of its unusual moment with its hands folded across its chest, some people believe that this image is last moment of the Buddha, but some people are trusted this image is Ananda , his personal attendant. At the end of the cliff is a massive reclining statue just over 14 meters long. This statue shows Buddha at rest as he enters in to final Nibbana (Parinirwanaya). The flow of the robes, the pillow and the feet of the statue are all exquisitely carved. The face also has a most peaceful smile.
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