Page 279 - Proceedings book

Ancient Pond Technology: Insights from the Galabedda Biso

Pokuna (Queen’s Pond), Sri Lanka.

D.M.L.D Dissanayaka
Department of Archaeology, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Lakshika2244@gmail.com

Keywords Abstract

Biso pokuna This study examines ancient pond technology, with a specific
focus on the Biso Pokuna (Queen’s Pond) at Galabedda in Sri
Galabedda Lanka. According to legend, this pond belonged to Sugala Devi,

hydraulic heritage the ruler of ‘Udundora’, the capital of Atadahas Rata.
Monuments, archaeological remains, as well as literature and
pond technology legends, suggest that art and architecture were highly developed

during the Polonnaruwa Era. The Galabedda Biso Pokuna,
Polonnaruwa Era
located in Monaragala, Siambalanduwa Divisional Secretariat, is
a remarkable work of art from this period. The primary objective
of this study is to analyze the architecture, technology, cultural
significance, and sustainable water management systems of the
Polonnaruwa period. Notably, this pond exhibits features
associated with a household and a factor of a latrine system. The
research employs a multidisciplinary methodology, including
archaeological field survey, literature analysis, and hydrological
technology modeling, to uncover the functionality and
significance of the pond. The study addresses the problem of
water management in dry regions, highlighting the innovative
solutions developed by ancient Sri Lankan engineers to sustain
water supply for agriculture, domestic use, and ceremonial
purposes. The results reveal that the Galabedda Biso Pokuna
exemplifies advanced construction techniques, such as stone-
lined walls to prevent seepage, a sustainable inflow and outflow
system, and a multi-functional design that balanced utilitarian
and aesthetic purposes. Additionally, the presence of a latrine
indicates the use of advanced ancient urinal technology.
Furthermore, Biso pokuna is one of the few ponds in Sri Lanka
that is associated with a cottage. Kumara Pokuna (Prince Pond),
another pond built during the Polonnaruwa period, shares
architectural similarities with this pond. Based on the
architectural features of the Galabedda Biso Pokuna, it can be
concluded that it was built for elites or royals. These findings
underscore the relevance of ancient hydraulic technologies in Sri
Lanka’s rich hydraulic heritage.

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