The most impressive sculptures at Polonnaruwa are the colossal Buddha images carved on the face of a granite boulder at the Gal Vihare. It includes some of the masterpieces of Sri Lankan Buddhist art, and these were commissioned by Parakramabahu I.
The first sculpture is a seated Buddha image in a deep meditation, on a throne decorated with lions and thunderbolts and behind the Buddha is a halo. The statue is one of the most impressive examples of Sri Lanka's sculpture.
The next sculpture is inside a cave out of solid rock. The seated Buddha is protected by an umbrella. Between the cave and the tall standing figure is a large inscription of Parakramabahu, which records in detail his struggle to unite the Buddhist order, and sets out the reformed rules of conduct.
The standing figure, twenty three feet high (7 metres), with crossed arms is the next sculpture to be seen. The carving of the serene face is extremely sensitive, and the relaxed, elegant execution of the body and drapery distinguishes this figure as one of the masterpieces of Sri Lankan art.
The immense figure of recumbent Buddha measures 46 ft (14 metres). is the last sculpture in the group. The Buddha is lying down, at the final moment of his earthly life, entering Parinibbana, the state of supreme enlightenment. Here too the liquid flow of the robes over the body and the calm expression of the face are beautifully interpreted.
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