Yapahuwa, located in Sri Lanka’s North Western Province about 4 hours from Colombo, served as the country’s capital for a brief but significant period in the 13th century. This ancient rock fortress rises dramatically from the surrounding plains, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s turbulent medieval history and remarkable architectural achievements.
Historical Significance
King Bhuvanekabahu I established Yapahuwa as Sri Lanka’s capital around 1273 CE after abandoning Polonnaruwa due to threats from South Indian invaders. The king moved the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha here, making it not only a political center but also a religious one.
However, Yapahuwa’s time as capital was short-lived. After only about 11 years, South Indian forces invaded, captured the Tooth Relic, and forced the royal court to relocate. Despite its brief prominence, Yapahuwa left behind impressive structures that demonstrate the engineering and artistic skills of ancient Sri Lankans.
The Remarkable Stone Stairway
The most striking feature of Yapahuwa is its ornate stone stairway that leads up the rock. Unlike anything else in Sri Lanka, this stairway features elaborate carvings of musicians, dancers, and my
thical creatures. The most impressive section includes stone balustrades carved in the shape of lions, similar to those at Sigiriya but with a distinct style.
The stairway narrows as it ascends, creating a forced perspective that makes the climb appear longer and more majestic. This architectural trick was intentionally designed to impress visitors approaching the royal palace at the summit.
The Fortress Complex
Built on a massive granite rock rising 100 meters above the surrounding plains, Yapahuwa’s fortress design took advantage of natural defenses. The complex included:
- A palace at the summit where the king resided
- A temple that once housed the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Military structures and defensive walls
- Living quarters for monks and royal officials
- Water storage tanks carved into the rock
Archaeological evidence shows that the lower area around the rock contained a thriving town with markets, housing, and religious buildings.
Visiting Yapahuwa Today
Modern visitors can climb the ancient stairway, though the upper sections are steep and require good physical condition. The archaeological museum at the site displays artifacts found during excavations, including Chinese ceramics that demonstrate Yapahuwa’s trade connections.
The panoramic views from the top reward those who make the climb, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside and distant mountains.
Cultural Impact
Though Yapahuwa’s time as capital was brief, its artistic influence continued in Sri Lankan culture. The distinctive lion motifs and architectural elements found at Yapahuwa influenced later buildings throughout the country.
The site serves as important evidence of Sri Lanka’s ability to recover and rebuild after invasions. Despite political upheavals, the skilled craftspeople of the era created enduring monuments that continue to impress visitors eight centuries later.
In Sri Lankan history, Yapahuwa represents a period of transition—a determined attempt to preserve national identity and royal authority during troubled times. Though ultimately unsuccessful as a long-term capital, it remains one of the country’s most distinctive archaeological sites and a testament to Sri Lankan resilience and creativity.