Anuradhapura stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most important ancient cities. From the 4th century BCE to the 11th century CE, it served as the capital of the first great Sinhalese kingdom. Today, its ruins form a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the advanced civilization that once thrived there.
Origins and Rise
Anuradhapura began as a simple settlement but grew in importance after King Devanampiya Tissa (307-267 BCE) converted to Buddhism. This conversion happened when Mahinda, son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The city then developed into a major religious and political center.
Sacred Bodhi Tree
One of Anuradhapura’s most sacred sites is the Sri Maha Bodhi tree. This tree grew from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in India, under which Buddha reached enlightenment. Brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta, Emperor Ashoka’s daughter, in the 3rd century BCE, it is considered the oldest historically documented tree in the world, making it a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Impressive Dagobas
Anuradhapura is famous for its massive brick stupas, called dagobas. These dome-shaped structures contain Buddhist relics and served as places of worship. The most notable dagobas include:
- Ruwanwelisaya (2nd century BCE): Built by King Dutugemunu and standing 103 meters tall, it contained relics of the Buddha
- Jetavanaramaya (3rd century CE): Once the tallest brick structure in the world at 122 meters
- Abhayagiri (1st century BCE): A massive complex that housed thousands of monks
- Thuparamaya: The oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, said to house the Buddha’s collarbone
Advanced Engineering
The ancient Sinhalese displayed remarkable engineering skills. They built massive irrigation systems with reservoirs called “tanks” to collect and distribute water. The largest, Abhayagiri Tank and Tissa Wewa, supported agriculture in the dry zone and still function today.
The Moonstone, a semi-circular stone at the entrance of important buildings, shows the artistic achievements of Anuradhapura craftsmen. These carved stones feature intricate designs of animals, plants, and geometric patterns.
Decline and Abandonment
After withstanding several South Indian invasions, Anuradhapura finally fell to the Chola Empire in 993 CE. The capital moved to Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura was largely abandoned, becoming covered by jungle over the centuries.
Rediscovery and Present Day
British explorers rediscovered Anuradhapura in the 19th century. Archaeological work began, uncovering the greatness of this ancient city. Today, Anuradhapura exists as both an archaeological park and a living city. While tourists explore the ancient ruins, locals still worship at the sacred Bodhi Tree, continuing traditions that have lasted over 2,000 years.
Anuradhapura remains a powerful symbol of Sri Lankan history and Buddhist heritage, showing how this civilization achieved remarkable architectural, engineering, and artistic heights long before similar developments in many other parts of the world.