THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF SRI LANKA
Anuradhapura, one of the most significant historical cities in Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to the island's rich cultural and religious heritage. As the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka, it flourished for over a thousand years, from the 4th century BCE to the 11th century CE, and remains one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Anuradhapura was established as the capital of the Kingdom of Rajarata by King Pandukabhaya in the 4th century BCE. Over the centuries, it became a thriving centre of politics, trade, and culture. The city witnessed the rule of many great kings, including King Devanampiya Tissa, who introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE with the arrival of Mahinda Thera, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka.
During its peak, Anuradhapura was home to massive stupas, sophisticated irrigation systems, and stunning palaces. However, due to repeated South Indian invasions, the city was eventually abandoned in the 11th century, leading to the rise of Polonnaruwa as the new capital.
KEY ATTRACTIONS
Sri Maha Bodhi : One of the most sacred sites in Anuradhapura, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is a fig tree that is believed to have grown from a cutting of the Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BCE, it is the oldest recorded tree in the world with a known planting date and continues to be a site of worship for Buddhists worldwide.
Ruwanvelisaya stupa : Built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, Ruwanwelisaya is one of the most magnificent stupas in Sri Lanka. Standing at approximately 55 meters, this grand white dagoba is a masterpiece of ancient engineering and a revered site for devotees.
Abayagiriya monastery complex : Abhayagiriya was a major monastic university and religious center during ancient times. It was home to thousands of monks and scholars and played a crucial role in the dissemination of Buddhist teachings.
Thuparamaya stupa : Believed to be the first stupa built in Sri Lanka, Thuparamaya was constructed by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE to enshrine the Buddha’s collarbone relic.
Kuttampokuna (Twin ponds) : These beautifully designed ancient bathing tanks highlight the advanced water management skills of the Anuradhapura civilization. The twin ponds were used by monks and served as part of the city’s sophisticated hydraulic system.
ANURADHAPURA TODAY
Today, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. Pilgrims from all over Sri Lanka visit the city to pay homage to its sacred sites, while history enthusiasts and travellers explore its ruins to witness the grandeur of ancient Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura's legacy continues to inspire awe, reminding the world of the island’s ancient civilization, its spiritual heritage, and the remarkable ingenuity of its people.
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