This is the oldest library complex found in Sri Lanaka. Pothgul means for
a place to store books. This viharaya was build by king Parakamabahu the Great
(1153-1185 AD). This was renovated by Queen Chandrawathi. a consort of
Pothgul Viharaya is a Gedige type structure, build in the middle
of the square shape stage.
The interesting point in this building is the circular structure in the middle, seems the main
library, made out of brick. The circular shape roof even made out of bricks
it seems. There are remaining of four small stupas at the four corners of
Out of it there are remaining of the several buildings which were used as
awasa ( residential cells where Bikkus live).
Pothgul Viharaya desig is closer to the most of the old vihara found in Cambodia.