Unpublished Inscription from llainunupola and the Archaeological Significance of the Surrounding Area

Abstract

The "Sathara Koralaya'" holds an important place in Sri Lankan history. The archaeological importance of this area is evident by the prehistoric sites at Alulena, Doravakkanda. Maniyangama Bclilcna (Deraniyagala, 1992) as well as from the inscriptions which ref~lr to ··nata" and "Parumaka" which were high ranking administratere post H.C.P.Bell the first Commissioner of the Department of Archaeology which was established in 1890 conducted extensive archaeological surveys of the Kegalle District (Bell, 1990). In addition the archaeological importance of the Satara Koralaya has been proved through various scholarly researches. The historic village of Atugoda Damunupola greatly contributes to the historical and archaeological importance of our country. The main reason for the importance of Damunupola is due to it being on the path of an ancient royal roadway extending from Menikkadawara, Iddamalpana, Attapitiya etc. In addition its geographical location makes it a suitable security point as well. The main aim of this paper is to discuss the unpublished slab inscription which was used as a flower altar in the Damunupola Viharaya and also to discuss its ancient as well as contemporary society.