The Sacred Quadrangle

The Sacred Quadrangle, located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is one of the most significant historical and religious sites in the country. This sacred area, which dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries, is a rich showcase of ancient Sinhalese architecture, religious devotion, and historical importance. The Quadrangle houses some of the most remarkable monuments in Sri Lanka, including temples, shrines, and the renowned Vatadage. Visitors from all over the world come to explore the well-preserved ruins and gain insight into the grandeur of the ancient Sinhalese kingdom.

History of The Sacred Quadrangle

The Sacred Quadrangle is a collection of religious and architectural structures built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, who ruled Polonnaruwa during the 12th century. This king was responsible for many of the city’s greatest achievements, including the development of the Sacred Quadrangle. The Quadrangle was designed to be the religious center of Polonnaruwa, where various important Buddhist rituals and ceremonies were conducted. It is said that the Sacred Quadrangle was a place where the king and his people could worship the Buddha and perform acts of devotion in a spiritually significant environment.

Over time, many structures within the Quadrangle fell into disrepair due to natural disasters and the passage of time. However, much of the architecture has been well-preserved, and the Sacred Quadrangle remains one of the most important archaeological sites in Sri Lanka. Today, it stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s deep Buddhist heritage and its history of royal patronage of the religion.

Architecture of The Sacred Quadrangle

The Sacred Quadrangle is known for its distinctive layout and the quality of its architectural features. The structures within the Quadrangle reflect the traditional Buddhist architectural style, which is characterized by symmetry, serenity, and spiritual significance. The key features of the Sacred Quadrangle include:

• Vatadage: This circular relic house is one of the most iconic structures in the Quadrangle. It is believed to have housed relics of the Buddha and is surrounded by a series of beautifully-carved stone pillars.
• Thuparama: An ancient image house that is considered one of the oldest buildings in the Sacred Quadrangle. It is famous for its beautiful stone carvings and the seated Buddha statue inside.
• Gal Vihara: While not technically within the Sacred Quadrangle, Gal Vihara is located nearby and is an essential part of the Polonnaruwa archaeological site. The Gal Vihara features some of the most exquisite rock-carved Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
• The Lotus Pond: The Quadrangle also features a lotus pond, which is an example of the exceptional skill of the Sinhalese builders in utilizing natural elements as part of the architecture. The pond is a peaceful spot for reflection and adds to the overall tranquility of the site.

Why The Sacred Quadrangle is Famous?

The Sacred Quadrangle is famous for several reasons, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka:

• Architectural Marvels: The monuments in the Sacred Quadrangle are among the finest examples of Sinhalese architecture, with intricate carvings, well-planned layouts, and exquisite stonework.
• Religious Significance: The Quadrangle was designed as a place of worship and devotion. It is home to several important Buddhist structures, including the Vatadage, which is believed to have housed sacred relics of the Buddha.
• Historical Importance: The Sacred Quadrangle is a testament to the grandeur of the ancient Sinhalese kingdom of Polonnaruwa. It remains an important archaeological site that provides valuable insight into the culture, religion, and history of Sri Lanka.
• Preserved Ruins: Despite centuries of wear and tear, the ruins of the Sacred Quadrangle are remarkably well-preserved. This makes it one of the most important sites for archaeological research and historical study in Sri Lanka.

How to Reach The Sacred Quadrangle

The Sacred Quadrangle is located in the heart of Polonnaruwa, which is easily accessible from various parts of Sri Lanka:

By Road: Polonnaruwa is located approximately 216 kilometers from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. The journey by car takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Travelers can hire a taxi or use a private vehicle to reach Polonnaruwa.

By Bus: Regular buses connect Polonnaruwa to other major cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. The bus station in Polonnaruwa is located near the entrance to the archaeological park, and the Sacred Quadrangle is within walking distance from there.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Habarana, about 45 kilometers away from Polonnaruwa. From Habarana, travelers can take a taxi or bus to reach the Sacred Quadrangle.

Weather at The Sacred Quadrangle

Polonnaruwa experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The weather can be quite hot during the day, especially during the dry season, so it is important to plan your visit accordingly.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Sacred Quadrangle is during the dry season, which lasts from December to April. During this period, the weather is warm but relatively comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Monsoon Season: The monsoon season runs from May to October, with frequent rainfall. While the Sacred Quadrangle remains open during the monsoon, the wet conditions may affect your exploration, so visitors should bring umbrellas or raincoats during this time.

Timing of The Sacred Quadrangle

The Sacred Quadrangle is open to visitors every day from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. It is recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM

It is advisable to plan your visit early in the day to experience the peace and tranquility of the site and to have more time to explore the various monuments.

Entry and Visit Details

Access to the Sacred Quadrangle is part of the entry to the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park. Visitors need to purchase an entry ticket, which provides access to all the major archaeological sites in Polonnaruwa, including the Sacred Quadrangle, Vatadage, and Thuparama.

Ticket Price: The entry fee for foreign visitors is approximately USD 25-30, which grants access to the entire archaeological park, including the Sacred Quadrangle and other significant sites in Polonnaruwa.

Facilities: While there are no significant facilities directly within the Sacred Quadrangle, visitors can find shops, restaurants, and accommodations nearby in Polonnaruwa. The city offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Things to Do at The Sacred Quadrangle

• Explore the Vatadage: The Vatadage is the highlight of the Sacred Quadrangle, with its beautiful stone pillars, carvings, and historical significance. Spend time admiring the craftsmanship and learning about its religious importance.
• Visit Thuparama: This ancient image house is home to a Buddha statue and is known for its exquisite stone carvings. Take a moment to reflect and enjoy the serene environment.
• Photography: The Sacred Quadrangle is an ideal spot for photography, offering beautiful views of ancient structures, lush greenery, and peaceful surroundings.
• Meditate and Reflect: The Sacred Quadrangle is a peaceful place for meditation and reflection. Take some time to enjoy the tranquility of the area and reflect on the rich history of the site.

Facts About The Sacred Quadrangle

• The Sacred Quadrangle was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, who was instrumental in the development of Polonnaruwa.
• The Vatadage is one of the most well-preserved relic houses in Sri Lanka, known for its intricate carvings and circular design.
• The Quadrangle is home to several important Buddhist monuments, including Thuparama and the Lotus Pond.
• The Sacred Quadrangle is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the entire archaeological park of Polonnaruwa.

Tips for Visiting The Sacred Quadrangle

• Wear comfortable shoes as the area involves walking on uneven ground.
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hot months.
• Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the structures.
• Respect the religious and cultural significance of the site, especially when near the monuments and Buddha statues.
• Spend time at the Vatadage and other temples to appreciate their detailed carvings and serene atmosphere.

The Sacred Quadrangle in Polonnaruwa is a must-visit site for those interested in Sri Lanka's ancient history, architecture, and Buddhist culture. With its peaceful surroundings, beautiful monuments, and rich history, it offers an unforgettable experience for travelers and history enthusiasts alike.