Polonnaruwa: The newly constructed two-storey Archaeological Museum and International Archaeological Research Institute at the Somawathi sacred area in Polonnaruwa was inaugurated today under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

According to News.LK, the building was developed under the Department of Archaeology’s plans, guided by the Chief Incumbent of the Somawathi Raja Maha Vihara, the Most Venerable Dr. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thero. The construction was entirely funded by Deshamanya Mithrapala Lankeshwara, Chairman of the Rathna Group, to support visitors to the Somawathi Chaityarajaya, where the Sacred Right Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined, as well as those involved in research activities.

During his visit to the Somawathi sacred site, President Dissanayake participated in religious observances and received blessings before unveiling the commemorative plaque. He officially opened the museum and research institute and made the first floral offering to the Buddha statue and sacred relic casket within the premises.

Deshamanya Mithrapala Lankeshwara presented a commemorative gift to the President at the event. Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, highlighted that the new facilities would provide insight into the archaeological significance of the Somawathi Chaityarajaya. The Minister also mentioned that the ongoing development of the site would follow a systematic plan integrating science and technology to preserve and share this heritage.

The event was attended by the Maha Sangha, led by the Most Venerable Dr. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thero, along with North Central Province Governor Wasantha Jinadasa, Deputy Minister of Housing T.B. Sarath, Members of Parliament, public representatives, Ms. Manel Deepani Gamage, Director of the Rathna Group, and Dayaka Sabha members.