Kotte - The Outer Moat and Gate

The outer entrance to this historic city has been in the vicinity of the present day Pita Kotte junction. This was situated some distance away from the south gate of the ramparts known as the Magul Doratuwa (and protected by a the moat known as the 'Atul Diya Agala').

This outer entrance too was protected by a moat known as the ‘Pita Diya Agala’ or the outer moat. Traces of the remains could be found today near ‘Sri Kotha’, the head office of the United National Party, in close proximity to the Pita Kotte Junction. The moat on both sides of the road has been filled up to serve as car parks for Sri Kotha as well as other shops in the vicinity. 

The Archeological Department has however managed to keep the moat area clear of any constructions. However the moat is today overgrown with trees, weeds and is a dumping ground for rubbish. It is said that kabok remains could be seen within this jungle of weeds. The above picture was taken recently after a cleanup by the Archeological Department.. 

Additional Photographs:

(a) The east side of the moat, across the Kotte Road.
(b) A close up of the east side of the outer moat.
(b) The view towards the west (Sri Kotha side, before the cleanup).