The ancient hospital complex at Mihinthale in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The ancient Sinhales are responsible for introducing the concept of hospitals to the world. According to the Mahavamsa, written in the 6th century A.C. King pandukabhaya (4th century B.C) had lying in homes and hospitals (sivikasotthi Sala) built in various parts of the country. This is the earliest literary evidence we have of the concept of hospitals. The Oldest archeological evidence we have so far of a hospital is in the ruins of Mihintale. The layout of the building and discovery of a medical through prove this. According to the Mahawams king Sena II (853-887A.C.) had built a hospital complex. We are not quite certain whether this reference is to the present hospital, which is in ruins at the site. The plan of Mihintale hospital complex is interesting. Thirty one rooms can be identified. All the rooms are arranged on a high platform. I have identified number distinctive features in this hospital complex. They are consulting room, Rooms for hot water baths, Outer court, Inner verandah court yard, Shrine room and Room for medicinal bath.