Polonnaruwa Kingdom

The Polonnaruwa Kingdom was an ancient Sri Lankan kingdom that thrived from the 11th to the 13th centuries. It succeeded Anuradhapura as the capital and became a center of culture, agriculture, and trade. The kingdom is renowned for its impressive architectural achievements, including stupas, temples, and palaces, reflecting advanced engineering and artistry. Notable rulers, like King Parakramabahu I, enhanced irrigation systems, boosting agricultural productivity. Polonnaruwa's ruins, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer valuable insights into the island's early civilization and its Buddhist heritage, showcasing a blend of political power and cultural richness.