Anuradhapura: A Journey into Ancient Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura is one of the most famous cities in Sri Lanka. It is an ancient city that holds a special place in history. Known for its sacred temples and grand monuments, this city was once the capital of Sri Lanka. Let’s take a simple journey through the wonders of Anuradhapura.

The First Capital of Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka. It was established more than 2,500 years ago. Kings ruled the country from here for centuries. The city was well planned and filled with beautiful buildings, palaces, and reservoirs.
Anuradhapura was not only the center of politics but also the center of religion. Buddhism spread across Sri Lanka from this city. Many of the temples and stupas built during that time still stand tall today. These structures are reminders of a glorious past.

Sacred Sites and Historical Landmarks

Anuradhapura is home to many sacred places.

Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most important sites in the city. It is a tree that grew from a branch of the Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. This tree is over 2,000 years old and is the oldest tree in the world. Pilgrims visit it to offer prayers and seek blessings.

Ruwanwelisaya is another iconic landmark. King Dutugemunu built this large stupa . The stupa is white and looks like a giant bubble rising into the sky. It is a symbol of peace and faith.

Thuparamaya is the first stupa in Sri Lanka. It was built to enshrine a relic of Lord Buddha.

Jetavanaramaya; Another must-visit site is the Jetavanaramaya, which is one of the largest brick structures in the world.

Mirisawetiya is one of the most ancient Dagabas in Sri Lanka, and it is More than 2100 years old. The great king Dutugemunu built this Magnificent Structure, a must-see for any visitor to the sacred city of Anuradhapura.
It is believed that the great king Dutugemunu made many wishes here that have come true during his lifetime.
King Dutugemunu built it as a Dagoba of the “Mahavihara” fraternity, but as the monks started living there, it seems that Mirisawetiya developed as a separate monastery.

Advanced Engineering and Water Management

The people of ancient Anuradhapura were very clever in engineering. They built large reservoirs to store water. These reservoirs helped them irrigate their fields even during dry seasons.
The Kala Wewa and Tissa Wewa are two famous reservoirs. They were built over 1,500 years ago and are still in use today. The Yodha Ela (a canal) was built to carry water from these reservoirs to the fields. It is an example of the advanced knowledge of the people at that time.

The Kala Wewa

The Kala Wewa is a historic reservoir in Sri Lanka, built by King Dhatusena in the 5th century. It is located in the North Central Province near Anuradhapura. The reservoir showcases ancient Sri Lankan engineering skills and serves as a lifeline for farmers in the region.
King Dhatusena constructed Kala Wewa to provide water for agriculture and daily life. The reservoir connects to the Jaya Ganga (Yodha Ela), a canal system that distributes water over long distances. This system irrigates paddy fields and ensures a steady water supply throughout the year.
The Kalw wewa spans a vast area, offering beauty with lush surroundings and calm waters. Many people enjoy relaxing near the banks or exploring the area. Wildlife, including birds and fish, flourish around Kala Wewa, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.
Today, Kala Wewa support farmers and remains an great symbol of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Its importance goes beyond water storage, representing the ingenuity and foresight of past rulers. While some restoration work has taken place, its historical value remains intact. Visitors often admire its tranquil environment and the engineering marvels of ancient times.

These systems helped make Anuradhapura a rich and self-sufficient city. The kings and engineers of that era made sure the people had enough water for farming and drinking.

A City of Culture and Devotion

Anuradhapura was not just a political and religious center. It was also a hub of culture. The city was full of scholars, artists, and craftsmen. The beautiful carvings and statues found in Anuradhapura show the skill of its people.
One example is the Samadhi Buddha Statue, which shows the Buddha in a meditative pose. The statue is simple yet powerful, and it is admired by everyone who sees it.
The city was also a place of learning. Monks and scholars from other countries came to study in Anuradhapura. It was truly a city of knowledge and devotion.

Visiting Anuradhapura Today

Today, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thousands of tourists visit the city every year to see its ancient monuments. It is a peaceful place where history comes alive.
Visitors can walk around the ruins and imagine what life was like in the past. They can also join pilgrims and participate in religious ceremonies at the sacred sites. Anuradhapura is a place where culture, history, and spirituality come together.

Conclusion,

Anuradhapura is a treasure of Sri Lanka. Its ancient ruins and sacred sites remind us of the country’s rich history and traditions. Whether you are interested in history, religion, or culture, this city has something to offer. Visiting Anuradhapura is like traveling back in time to the golden age of Sri Lanka.