POLONNARUWA Meaning and
Definition
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Polonnaruwa is a proper noun that refers to a historical city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It served as the second capital of the ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century CE. Polonnaruwa is renowned for its rich archaeological and historical significance.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its well-preserved remains that provide insights into the grandeur and prosperity of the ancient civilization. The city boasts numerous ancient structures, including palaces, temples, monasteries, and massive dagobas (stupas) that stand as remarkable architectural marvels. These structures are constructed using unique Sri Lankan architectural styles, showcasing the kingdom's cultural heritage.
The city of Polonnaruwa was designed in a grid-like pattern, with temples and royal buildings located in the center and various residential areas surrounding them. The prominent landmarks of Polonnaruwa include the Royal Palace, Quadrangle, Rankoth Vehera, Gal Vihara, and Lankatilaka Temple. The city also features a system of ancient reservoirs and canals that demonstrate the advanced irrigation techniques employed during that era.
Due to its cultural, historical, and archaeological significance, Polonnaruwa attracts tourists, researchers, and history enthusiasts from around the world. Exploring Polonnaruwa offers visitors a glimpse into the glorious past of Sri Lanka and provides profound insights into the medieval urban planning and architectural excellence of the ancient kingdom.
Etymology of POLONNARUWA
The word "Polonnaruwa" has its origins in the Sinhala language, which is spoken in Sri Lanka. The term can be broken down into two parts: "Polon" and "Naruwa".
"Polon" is derived from the word "Pulatthin", which means "pond" or "lake" in Sinhala. This is due to the presence of several tanks or man-made reservoirs in the region, which were integral to the ancient agricultural civilization that thrived there.
"Naruwa" refers to a city or urban area. It is associated with the Sinhala term "Nagaranuvara", which means "city". The addition of "Naruwa" to "Polon" in "Polonnaruwa" gives it the meaning of a "city by the lake".
