Lankathilaka Image House | Polonnaruwa

Lankatilaka Image House, Sri Lanka

Lankatilaka Image House is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Polonnaruwa, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is a significant architectural and religious site from the Polonnaruwa period (11th–13th centuries) and remains an important example of ancient Sinhalese architecture and Buddhist art.

Overview

• Name: Lankatilaka Image House
• Location: Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
• Date: Built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (12th century CE)
• Type: Buddhist Temple, Image House (Viharaya)
• Purpose: Religious, Cultural, Historical

Historical and Cultural Significance

King Parakramabahu I’s Contribution:

• Lankatilaka Image House was constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, who was known for his religious devotion and efforts to promote Buddhism across the island. The temple is part of the larger Polonnaruwa archaeological site, which reflects the flourishing of the Sinhalese kingdom during this period.
• The name "Lankatilaka" is derived from the word "Lanka", referring to Sri Lanka, and "tilaka", meaning a mark or significance. It suggests that the temple was a prominent religious site in the kingdom, possibly marked by the king’s patronage.

Architectural Importance:

• Lankatilaka Image House is known for its distinctive architecture, combining elements of Vijayanagara and Sri Lankan styles. The structure features a large central hall, which was used for the veneration of a Buddha statue.
• The image house is built with brick and stone and was originally roofed with a wooden or thatched roof. The layout of the temple is designed to reflect the majesty and serenity of the Buddha.

The Central Buddha Statue:

• The most notable feature of Lankatilaka is the large seated Buddha statue that once occupied the central chamber. The statue, believed to have been created during the reign of Parakramabahu I, is an important religious icon. Although the statue itself is no longer in its original condition, portions of it can still be seen in the temple complex.
• The Buddha statue was originally built in a meditation posture, which is considered significant in Buddhist art as it symbolizes inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. The statue’s grandeur and calm expression would have inspired worshippers to focus on meditation and reflection.

Connection to Other Temples:

• Lankatilaka Image House is part of a group of important Buddhist sites in Polonnaruwa, including Vatadage and Gal Vihara. These temples were built to honor the Buddha and reflect the king’s deep commitment to Buddhism. Lankatilaka, with its location and architecture, ties into the overall spiritual landscape of the area, which was built to serve the needs of the population and the religious community.

Key Features

Architecture and Structure:

• The main hall of Lankatilaka is a large rectangular structure built from brick and stone. The central image house is believed to have had a wooden roof that has since disappeared, but the stone foundation and walls remain intact, providing insight into the architectural techniques of the time.
• The walls of the temple are decorated with carvings, inscriptions, and reliefs that depict various scenes from the life of the Buddha, adding to the artistic value of the structure.

Buddha Statue:

• The central Buddha statue, though no longer intact, is legendary for its monumental size and was one of the largest Buddha statues in Polonnaruwa. The statue was designed to invoke reverence, and its presence in the temple was the focal point for worshippers.

Artistic Elements:

• The walls of the temple contain reliefs and paintings that depict important scenes from Buddhist mythology and the life of the Buddha. These art forms are key to understanding the cultural and religious practices of the time.
• Some of the artwork also features architectural motifs and floral designs, blending both aesthetic beauty and religious symbolism.

Surrounding Area:

• Lankatilaka is set in a spacious compound surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for worshippers. The area around the temple includes a small courtyard, meditation spaces, and a few smaller shrines dedicated to various Buddhist deities and historical figures.
• The temple is situated near other significant sites within the Polonnaruwa archaeological zone, making it an important stop for visitors exploring the ancient capital.

Visitor Experience

Historical and Cultural Insights:

• Lankatilaka provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the ancient architecture and Buddhist culture of Sri Lanka. The temple's artifacts and sculptures are valuable for understanding the religious and artistic traditions of the Polonnaruwa period.
• Information boards around the site provide explanations of the symbolism behind the statues and the architectural elements of the temple.

Spiritual Significance:

• Lankatilaka continues to serve as a site for pilgrimage for Buddhist devotees. Visitors can experience the spiritual ambiance of the temple and the surrounding area, which remains a place of worship and meditation.
• The serenity of the temple, combined with its religious atmosphere, offers a unique opportunity for spiritual reflection and connection with Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.

Scenic and Peaceful Setting:

• The temple is located in a peaceful part of Polonnaruwa, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil setting and appreciate the harmony between the natural environment and the historical architecture.
• The temple is a great spot for photography, with the remains of the Buddha statue, the architectural structure, and the surrounding greenery all offering scenic views.

Conclusion

Lankatilaka Image House is a culturally significant and architecturally impressive Buddhist site in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, the temple showcases the ancient craftsmanship and religious devotion of the period. Despite the passage of time, Lankatilaka remains a key part of Sri Lanka's religious landscape and historical heritage. Visitors to the site can experience the spiritual atmosphere, admire the artistic masterpieces, and gain a deeper understanding of the Buddhist tradition in Sri Lanka.