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Kotte – the wealthiest kingdom in 16th Century-Dr. Tilak S Fernando   Royal Abode of King Bhuvanekabahu I Source:Dailynews In the 16th Century, Ceylon was divided into three reigns: Kotte, Up-country and ‘Yapa’. Of these, the principal kingdom and the wealthiest was Kotte. Agriculture (Paddy growing) was the main crop. Still, within the Kotte area, the supplies of tea, rubber, coconut, cinnamon, areca nut, and precious stones, including elephants, were sourced from other regions. The King’s income was an important factor in terms of his security. Once, King Buwanekabahu protected his reign from enemy attacks from the Portuguese by signing an accord with them and offering a bribe of considerable money (Kurunduwahara three hundred) to obtain war equipment. ...