About the Dedigama
The historical value of Dedigama is linked with “Kotawehera”, the archeology museum and the Stripura cave. The name “Kotawehera” has been derived from the shape of the stupa, which does not have the usual upper part. According to various historical sources, Queen Rathnavalie used this place to give birth to her baby, who later became King Parakramabahu, a king that ruled in the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. The “Eth Pahana” (a lamp having the shape of an elephant) is another important archaeological asset that was found during past excavations. The hydro engineering principles used in that lamp reflect the engineering excellence of the people who lived in that ancient era.
Sthripura Cave, according to folklore, was used by King Valagamba to conceal 500 of his queens. Sthripura means a place full of women. Unlike any other cave in Sri Lanka, it has a magnificent natural stone arch at the entrance to the cave. About 250 years after the reign of king Valagamba, the cave was discovered by a Buddhist priest who converted it into a temple.
