Stone marvel created by great kings

Pix and text Nimal WIJAYATUNGA -Eheliyagoda special correspondent

The Isurumuniya Lovers. Some believe that they are Prince Saliya and Sadol beauty Asokamala.

'Ranmasu Uyana' or the Goldfish Park situated very close to Tissa wewa and Isurumuniya Temple in Anuradhapura can be classified as a stone marvel created during the period of our great kings. This attractive and isolated rocky park derives its name as there was a gold - coloured fish variety in the ponds at that time, it is believed.

Tissawewa from where water has been pumped to ‘Ranmasu Uyana.’

This well-planned pleasure garden seemed designed entirely for the enjoyment the royal blood at that time. It consists of buildings, ponds, a water drainage system, a moat, a meditation chamber and a series of nature made rocky formations. Pure water for the ponds in the park is obtained from the tank situated close by through a man-made tunnel.

It is believed that the park was constructed by the then King Devanampiyatissa, for the use of the Royal family. The well-known Prince 'Saliya' and low caste beauty 'Asokamala' are also believed to have met there.

Almost all the royal buildings constructed in the park during ancient times have gradually collapsed and portions of bricks can be seen even today. The rock slab ponds indicate the clever craftsmanship during that time. On the rocky facets of the pond there are carved (partially embossed) figures of bathing elephants.

There is a mystic stone inscription carved cleverly on a large rock in the middle of the garden.

It consists of several circles and figures that indicates meditation.

Some believe, that the famous 'Isurumuniya lovers' were moved from Ranmasu Uyana to Isurumuniya temple sometime ago.