Vathiri Pillayar Kovil Archaeological Ruins
The ruined Ambalama (Photo credit: Google street view) Vathiri Pillayar Kovil is a Hindu temple situated in Vathiri village in Jaffna District, Sri Lanka. Ruins The ruins of several ancient structures such as a pond, a moat, an Ambalama (an old wayside rest) , a well and several other stone creations are found within the temple premises as well as on the opposite side of the road in front of it. Vathiri Madam The ruins of an old Madam (or Ambalama) can be seen on the opposite side of the road. The roof of this building is no more but six hexagonal pillars and part of the walls made of limestone are still existing. Near this building is a well probably made for the water convenience of the people who stayed in the Madam. Madams are traditional resting places built by locals to accommodate wayfarers who were travelling to distant places. They were also used as a place for people to gather, hold meetings and serve as a public place in society. During the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, they wer…
