Pothgul Vehera – Polonnaruwa

Description

Pothgul Vehera is the oldest library complex found in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Pothgul means a place to store books. This temple was built by king Parakamabahu the Great (1153-1185 AD). This was restored by Queen Chandrawathi. a spouse of King Parakarmabahu.
Pothgul Viharaya is a Gedige model construction build in the middle of the rectangular frame stage. The attractive point in this building is the circular structure in the middle, and it seems the main library, made out of brick. The circular shape roof is also constructed out of bricks, it appears. There are remaining four miniature stupas at the four corners of the basement. Several remaining buildings were utilised as residential chambers(awasa) where the monks live.