Colombo, Oct. 6 -- A newly constructed two-storey building housing the Archaeological Museum and the International Archaeological Research Institute at the historic Somawathi sacred area in Polonnaruwa was officially opened today under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the President's Media Division (PMD) said.

The facility, developed under the supervision of the Department of Archaeology, follows guidance from the Chief Incumbent of Somawathi Raja Maha Vihara and Registrar of the Mahavihara Vansika Syamopali Maha Nikaya of the Malwatta Chapter, the Most Venerable Dr. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thero. The project was fully funded by Deshamanya Mithrapala Lankeshwara, Chairman of the Rathna Group, aiming to enhance t...