Evidence of pre-historic civilization found in Polonnaruwa

14 March 2024 12:00 am - 7 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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The finds included the archaeological remains of ponds and several buildings which were indicative of a sophisticated society in Polonnaruwa area

Archaeologists carrying out excavations in the historic Polonnaruwa city have found evidence of a civilization that dates back to a period before the Polonnaruwa period recorded in history.
Prof. Prishantha Gunawardene of the Archaeological Studies Division of Kelaniya University said that evidence of that pre-historic civilization came to light during the recent research project implemented by Kelaniya and Jaffna Universities with the help of La Trobe University of Australia and the Central Cultural Fund.
He said that the researchers used radar scanners penetrating through the crust of the earth deeper into the inner strata to lay bare the archaeological evidence of the ancient civilization.
“We launched the excavation project to conduct research on the urban civilization that existed during the Polonnaruwa period. A team of archaeologists of Kelaniya University, Jaffna University, La Trobe University of Australia, the Department of Archaeology and the Central Cultural Fund carried out research in the archaeological site of King Parakramabahu’s royal palace and its surroundings. They used modern technology in research. The project is to be completed by February 26.

“The main object of the excavation project is to find archaeological remains of the urban life that existed in the ancient Polonnaruwa city. The researchers use modern technology including radar scanners to examine the remains of antiquated civilization. This resulted in extensive research on more than eighty percent on Polonnaruwa inner city. It is of significance that the researchers have made a forward stride beyond the archaeological remains of King Parakramabahu’s royal palace, the conference hall, and the ponds, and discovered the archaeological evidence of a historic civilization buried about three metres deep in the ground.
“The finds included the archaeological remains of ponds and several buildings which were indicative of a sophisticated society in Polonnaruwa area that dates back to a period much farther than the Polonnaruwa period recorded in history. Archaeologists are conducting further excavations based on the finds. This would open the gate for wider knowledge of the historic Polonnaruwa city and we would take step to provide the opportunity to the tourists to watch the grandeur of the historic city in the far gone days,” Prof. Prishantha Gunawardene further said.

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Comments - 7

Jeanne Thursday, 14 March 2024 10:52 AM

Not just in Polonnaruwa but right here in Colombo too can we find dinosaurs. Look no further than Parliament house ... all the pre-historic relics are alive and well!!!

Plato Sunday, 17 March 2024 02:02 AM

Jeanne, the difference is that the prehistoric relics talk about a proud society that did well for the people- while the living relics in Colombo have set their eyes on pilfering and running away with anything they can lay their hands on!

Adwani Friday, 15 March 2024 04:27 AM

Instead of engaging in deep excavation and extensive research, why not concentrate on present civilization, to protect and develope.

Umar Perera Friday, 15 March 2024 11:37 AM

Great work. Please secure the site and have security too. Looking forward to more information.

Sri Rohana Saturday, 16 March 2024 10:53 AM

Before Polonnaruwa was made the Capital, it was the place of strategic retreat to Kings in the face of South Indian invasion. Next to it is the Mahaweli river, boundary of the indomitable Ruhuna, which few invaders dared to enter. So it is quite possible that these newly found ruins are those of the previous habitations before Polonnaruwa was made the Capital in face of repeated invasions/ravages by the South Indians.

FredSnR Saturday, 16 March 2024 03:35 PM

How much more we will discover when educated people combine with modern technology in all fields not just in archaeology.This is in the land but what about the sea our economic zone stretching out for 20km or 20 miles instead we quarrel and fight with each other and debate in parliament like kids on stupid topics whether to import big onions from where to import eggs etc when the solution is to plant grow produce.Now the issue is when to hold elections whether parliamentary or presidential without just having it as scheduled and bowing to the peoples verdict.This is what happens in all developed countries even developing ones.The President is an educated man he can guide

navratne willamune Sunday, 17 March 2024 08:08 AM

massive archealogical discoveries in Dimbulagala about two years ago sheds light on an era previously unknown.Inscriptions on a huge rock over 30 ft long yet to be read and interpreated this is a significant finding

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Evidence of pre-historic civilization found in Polonnaruwa

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