Sacred City of Anuradhapura
Unesco World Heritage

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Introduction

The Sacred City of Anuradhapura, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. With a history dating back over 2,500 years, Anuradhapura was the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka and served as a center of political, religious, and cultural activities. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich heritage and architectural marvels of the ancient Sinhalese civilization.

History

Anuradhapura was established in the 4th century BCE by King Pandukabhaya, who unified the island and made it his capital. Over the centuries, the city flourished under the rule of successive Sinhalese kings, becoming a major center of Buddhism and a hub of trade and commerce. The city reached its zenith during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, who embraced Buddhism after the arrival of Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka of India. During its golden age, Anuradhapura was adorned with magnificent palaces, monasteries, stupas, and irrigation systems. The city's prosperity attracted pilgrims, scholars, and traders from across Asia, contributing to its cosmopolitan nature. However, the city faced numerous invasions and was eventually abandoned in the 11th century CE due to repeated South Indian invasions.

Current State

Today, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is a sprawling archaeological site covering an area of approximately 40 square kilometers. It is divided into several zones, each containing a plethora of ancient structures and ruins. The site is meticulously preserved and managed by the Sri Lankan Department of Archaeology. One of the most iconic landmarks of Anuradhapura is the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in India under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. It is the oldest documented tree in the world and is revered by Buddhists worldwide. The Ruwanwelisaya stupa, Jetavanaramaya stupa, and Abhayagiriya monastic complex are other notable structures that showcase the architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lanka. The city's irrigation system, consisting of reservoirs, canals, and tanks, is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Sinhalese. The Tissa Wewa and Nuwara Wewa reservoirs, built to provide water for agriculture and domestic use, still serve their purpose today. Anuradhapura continues to be a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists, attracting devotees from all over the world. The annual Poson Poya festival, commemorating the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, sees thousands of pilgrims flocking to the city to engage in religious observances and cultural festivities. In recognition of its historical and cultural value, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. The site stands as a living testament to the grandeur of ancient Sri Lanka and serves as a reminder of the country's rich heritage and religious traditions. In conclusion, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the architectural, religious, and cultural achievements of ancient Sri Lanka. With its ancient ruins, religious monuments, and well-preserved irrigation systems, Anuradhapura continues to captivate visitors and stands as a testament to the country's glorious past.