A Sinhala Peasant’s Ancient Wattle and Daub Hut?

Michael Roberts

I wonder how many people exploring the range of ruins at Polonnaruwa visit the Museum maintained by the Archaelogical Department (located near the rest house on the edge of the Parakrama Samudra? Its items are not brilliant, but there is some interesting fare. But let me pinpoint the pinnacle exhibit: a reconstruction of what today’s scholars think the everyday Sinhala cultivator lived in: a wattle and daub hut.

This edifice has been constructed beside the Museum, It is more than a little worse for ware ….. but the dilapidation adds lustrous realism to the scenario

So … there you have it — lock stock and declining barrel.

Do take time to wonder nearby. There is also a natural artifact — an anthill home of unusual character alongside an unusual palm tree.

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….. And, then, there are the sturdily  remnant ruins of Nissanka Malla’s 12th century palace….. and to your left the sweeping waters of the Parakrama Samudra.

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The NOTE in Wikipedia on Nissanka Malla

Nissanka Malla, also known as Kirti Nissanka and Kalinga Lokesvara was a king of Sri Lanka who ruled the country from 1187 to 1196. He is known for his architectural constructions such as the Nissanka Lata Mandapaya, Hatadage and Rankot Vihara, as well as for the refurbishment of old temples and irrigation tanks.

Nissanka Malla declared that only a Buddhist had the right to rule the country, thereby securing his position and justifying his claim for kingship. He spent large sums for various constructions and refurbishments, and also gave money to the public in an attempt to put down crimes. He maintained cordial relationships with several countries, and also invaded the states of the Pandyan and Chola dynasties in South India.

….. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissanka_Malla_of_Polonnaruwa