Gal Potha stone inscription (Stone Book)
Description
If you are fascinated by ancient history and culture, you must have heard about Polonnaruwa's Gal Potha stone inscription. This old stone book is a remarkable example of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and is one of the most valuable historical treasures of the country. This article will explore the history, significance, and cultural value of the Gal Potha stone inscription.
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History of Gal Potha
Gal Potha, also known as the Stone Book, is a large stone slab in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. This stone slab is about 8.2 meters long and 1.4 meters wide, weighing around 25 tons. The inscription is believed to have been carved during the reign of King Nissanka Malla, who ruled from 1187 to 1196 CE. The stone slab was initially placed on the floor of a chapter house in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the capital of Sri Lanka, during the 12th century.
Significance of Gal Potha
Gal Potha is considered one of the most significant historical treasures of Sri Lanka. It contains a wealth of information about the culture, language, religion, and politics of ancient Sri Lanka. The inscription is written in Sinhala, the native language of Sri Lanka. It provides essential information about the Buddhist religion, including its doctrine, ethical principles, and rules for monastic life. The inscription also contains information about the political history of Sri Lanka, including the names and achievements of the kings who ruled the country during that time.
The Content of Gal Potha
The Gal Potha inscription is divided into four sections. The first section contains the Buddhist doctrine and ethical principles, and the second section provides rules for monastic life. The third section lists the names and achievements of the kings who ruled the country during that time, and the fourth section contains information about the construction of religious buildings and other public works. The text is composed of 72 lines and 3 columns and contains over 4300 characters. – Gal Potha (Stone Book) During the time in Polonnaruwa. The inscription is carved in a clear and legible script, indicating the high literacy and education level in ancient Sri Lanka.
Cultural Value of Gal Potha
Gal Potha is a valuable historical artifact and a cultural symbol of Sri Lanka. The inscription reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and the influence of Buddhism on its society. The Stone Book is also a testament to ancient Sri Lankan artisans' high artistic and technical skills. The stone slab is decorated with intricate carvings, including floral motifs, animal figures, and geometric patterns, which add to its aesthetic value.
Preservation of Gal Potha
The Gal Potha stone inscription is a fragile artifact that requires proper preservation to ensure longevity. Therefore, the inscription has undergone several conservation and restoration projects to protect it from weathering, erosion, and vandalism. The latest restoration project was carried out in 2015, using state-of-the-art technology and techniques to preserve the inscription for future generations.
How to Reach
To reach the Gal Potha inscription in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, you can take a bus or a taxi from the nearby town of Habarana, about 48 kilometres away. Alternatively, you can hire a car or a tuk-tuk from Polonnaruwa town to reach the site. Once you get to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, you can easily find the Gal Potha inscription within the Sacred Quadrangle, the heart of the ancient city. The Sacred Quadrangle is a complex of old buildings and structures, including the Royal Palace, the Audience Hall, and several temples and shrines. Gal Potha is located near the entrance of the Sacred Quadrangle and can be easily identified by its large size and intricate carvings.
The Gal Potha stone inscription is a valuable historical treasure that provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. The inscription contains information about the country's religion, language, politics, and society during the 12th century. The Stone Book is a valuable artifact and a cultural symbol of Sri Lanka. It is a testament to ancient Sri Lankan artisans' artistic and technical skills.
