A newly constructed two-storey building housing the Archaeological Museum and the International Archaeological Research Institute at the historic Somawathi sacred area in Polonnaruwa was officially opened today under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the President’s Media Division (PMD) reported.
The facility was developed under the supervision of the Department of Archaeology, following guidance from the Chief Incumbent of Somawathi Raja Maha Vihara and Registrar of the Mahavihara Vansika Syamopali Maha Nikaya of the Malwatta Chapter, the Most Venerable Dr. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thero. The project was fully funded by Deshamanya Mithrapala Lankeshwara, Chairman of the Rathna Group, to enhance the experience of devotees visiting the Somawathi Chaityarajaya—where the Sacred Right Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined—and to support scholars engaged in archaeological research.
President Dissanayake began his visit with religious observances at the Chaityarajaya, receiving blessings before unveiling the commemorative plaque to mark the building’s opening. He also made the first floral offering to the Buddha statue and the sacred relic casket within the premises.
