Anuradhapura
Be prepared to steep yourself in history the minute you step into this hallowed city. The bedrock of ancient Buddhist civilization, Anuradhapura is an ancient city with a rich heritage in history, culture, politics and religion. As the first great capital city of the Sinhalese civilization, the sprawling city still holds vestiges of architectural ruins of ancient kingdoms and Buddhist temples.
A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a deep insight into the life and times of Sri Lanka’s majestic kings and the engineering and architectural capabilities of the times. About 205 kilometres or a five-hour drive from the city of Colombo, Anuradhapura is one of the three stunning locations in the Cultural Triangle.
The most famous monument is the ruins of the Brazen Palace and the Ruwanweli Seya erected by King Dutugemunu circa 164 BC. The city also contains a sacred Bo-Tree or Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest authenticated sacred tree, which is said to date back to the year 245 BC and planted from a sapling from the holy tree under which Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.
A magnificent sight is the Jetavanarama, considered the largest stupa (temple domes) or dagoba in the world. The city is peppered with ruins of ancient stupas and other sites of religious significance. Their intricate carvings and sculptures are remarkable and the ancient stones speak of the days of yore when the city was ruled by brave kings and presided over by Buddhist clergy, as pilgrims from around the world flocked to the birthplace of Buddhism in the country: Anuradhapura.
Unfortunately, the city eventually declined in importance and went into disrepair when Polonnaruwa gained in prominence in the 10th century AD. A comprehensive Archaeological Museum located in the city offers a greater understanding of the city’s unique monuments.
The city remained the capital for almost 1,000 years and during the height of its ascent, commanded tremendous respect and influence in the world. There is little to do in the city apart from visiting the ancient temples, monasteries and tanks though, but a visit to Anuradhapura leaves the visitor with a sense of awe and history so profound that the experience lingers long after.
