Pothgul Vehera
Pothgul Viharaya, which means 'a place to keep books' in English, is believed to be the oldest library complex in Sri Lanka, and is located within the Polonnaruwa kingdom. The structure is thought to have been built by King Parakramabahu (1153 AD - 1186 AD) and is situated not too far from the statue of the king. It is said to have been renovated by Queen Chandravati, who was a consort of King Parakramabahu.
Although the original name of the complex is unknown, it is believed to have been a Buddhist library where Buddhist writings were studied and kept. The complex is built with bricks on 4 stages, and the third stage has 9 buildings which are believed to have been the residential cells of Buddhist priests. At the top of the complex is a circular structure built in the center of the square-shaped stage, which has a dome-shaped roof made of bricks, though the roof is no longer present. This circular structure is believed to be the main library. The walls of the building still bear fr...
Although the original name of the complex is unknown, it is believed to have been a Buddhist library where Buddhist writings were studied and kept. The complex is built with bricks on 4 stages, and the third stage has 9 buildings which are believed to have been the residential cells of Buddhist priests. At the top of the complex is a circular structure built in the center of the square-shaped stage, which has a dome-shaped roof made of bricks, though the roof is no longer present. This circular structure is believed to be the main library. The walls of the building still bear fr...
