Ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is Buddhism’s holiest city and its history stretches back to ancient times. Known as the first true kingdom of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura has historic Buddhist temples, ruins of palaces and sprawling gardens to explore.Visit the city any day, and you will see devotees carrying trays of fresh flowers and walking to one of the many ancient shrines to place them at Buddha’s feet.
Anuradhapura is home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi which is the most revered tree in Sri Lanka. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi was planted in 288BC and is also the oldest historic tree in the world. The sapling was taken off the Bodhi tree under which Buddha was enlightened.
The mighty Ruwanweliseyain Anuradhapura is one of the most prominent monumental edifices in the country. The Abayagiriya stupa in Anuradhapura was built in the 1st century BC and is a sight to behold. Rivaling the Abayagiriya in size is the Jethawanaramaya, the original height of which was 122 meters. The eight feet structure of Buddha-Samadhi statue, Aukana Buddha statute and Isurumuniya carvings are proof of the skill and artistry of ancient sculptors. The serene Samadhi statue is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful Buddha images in the world. The half-moon shape ‘Moonstone’ belonging to the Anuradhapura is a magnificent piece of art. Used as a stepping stone at the entrance of a temple, it depicts intricate images of animals and floral creepers.
The massive reservoirs in Anuradhapura are a reflection of the great feats of hydraulic engineering achieved during the era. To date, Anuradhapura is watered by three such tanks built by our forefathers centuries ago.
