Introduction
This is the council Chamber of King Nissankamala, (1187-1196) situated in the Royal
garden. The lion Figure Made of stone at the Southern end of the building is the
inscription on the illars indicates the seating arrangement of the respective menistres
and state officiats. No better evidence is available anywhere in the island about
the arrangement of an ancient royal council than this. The roof Supported in stone
pillars probably had wooden members and coverd with clay tiles. This is a three
terraced building with carvings of elephants, horses and lions. There are four rows
of elegant stone pillars. There would have been a wooden roof. The inscriptions
on the pillars are more important than their scenic beauty. They recorded the positions
occupied by the dignitaries, when the king was on the magnificent “Lion Throne”.
Prof Paranavithana has rendered a yeoman service in interpreting the inscriptions
and renovating the dilapidated buildings. The inscription on the lion in the council
chamber records that it served as a throne to the king. A lion may have been used
to decorate the kings’ throne in order to display the majesty of the king. To the
right hand side of the king there is a small throne (moulded stone seat) inscribed
as the seat of the heir apparent.
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